Molecular motors for DNA translocation in prokaryotes

► Single molecule techniques enable mechanistic insight into DNA translocation motors. ► DNA transport in bacteria and phages is driven by powerful molecular motors. ► During chromosome segregation or dimer resolution SpoIIIE/FtsK translocation directionality is set by polar DNA sequences. ► Translocation velocity decreases with capsid filling during viral encapsidation. ► Force-dependent DNA import rate during transformation depends on bacterial species.