Topologically Linked Kinetoplast DNA Visualized with Atomic Force Microscopy

Kinetoplast DNA (kDNA), from the mitochondria of trypanosomatid parasites, is a complex structure consisting of thousands of topologically interlocked DNA minicircles. In recent years, they have emerged as a model system for the study of Olympic gels and 2D materials. Many open questions exist surrounding the complicated relationship between kDNA topology and the properties of topological 2D materials, which also has implications for understanding the parasite life cycle. We use ultra-high resolution atomic force microscopy to capture images of kDNA on a mica surface, which we analyze to gain insight into kDNA's underlying topology and the equilibrium properties of Olympic gels. Here, we present preliminary results about the average linking number of the minicircles and the relationship between the mass and radius of kDNA.