Extrusion Complex (IMAGE) Rice University Caption The protein complex that forms DNA loops operates like the plastic slider that is used to adjust the length of backpack straps. The complex lands on DNA and takes up slack to form a loop. Researchers discovered that a specific DNA keyword called a 'motif' -- a string of fewer than 20 genetic letters that causes the DNA to bind a protein called CTCF -- lies at each end of nearly all loops. Credit A. Sanborn, S. Rao Usage Restrictions Must credit: "A. Sanborn, S. Rao" License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.