Scientists have discovered that DNA behaves surprisingly when passing through tiny nanopores, disproving a long-held assumption in genetic research. What they thought were knots causing chaotic electrical signals are actually twisted coils called plectonemes. These coils are created by the action of flowing ions inside the nanopores, which twist the DNA like a telephone cable. Twists can persist and grow as the DNA moves through the pore. They leave clear electrical fingerprints. The discovery confirms that scientists have been wrong about understanding DNA knots for decades.