Mechanics and imaging of single DNA molecules.

We review recent experiments that have revealed mechanical properties of single DNA molecules using advanced manipulation and force sensing techniques(scanning force microscopy (SFM), optical or magnetic tweezers, microneedles). From such measurements, intrinsic relevant parameters (persistence length, stretch modulus) as well as their dependence on external parameters (non-physiological conditions, coating with binding agents or proteins) are obtained on a single-molecule level. In addition, imaging of DNA molecules using SFM is presented.