Figure 1.

A schematic view of the homology search on DNA by RecA filaments. There are $L-1$ nonspecific sites and one specific homology site at the position m on the DNA chain. A filament can diffuse in the solution along the DNA chain with the rate u, or might associate to any site on DNA with the rate $k_{\text{on}}$. From DNA, the RecA filament can dissociate into the solution with the rate $k_{\text{off}}$. The states in the bulk solution are labeled as 1, and the states on DNA are labeled as 0. To see this figure in color, go online.