Dynamics of force-induced DNA slippage

Phys Rev Lett. 2004 Nov 5;93(19):198102. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.93.198102. Epub 2004 Nov 1.

Abstract

We study the base pairing dynamics of DNA with repetitive sequences where local strand slippage can create, annihilate, and move bulge loops. Using an explicit theoretical model, we find a rich dynamical behavior as a function of an applied shear force f: reptationlike dynamics at f=f(c) with a rupture time tau scaling as N3 with its length N, drift-diffusion dynamics for f(c)<f<f(*), and a dynamical transition to an unraveling mode of strand separation at f=f(*). We predict a viscoelastic behavior for periodic DNA with time and force scales that can be programmed into its sequence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Base Pairing / physiology*
  • DNA / chemistry
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA / metabolism
  • DNA / physiology*
  • Models, Genetic*
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Thermodynamics

Substances

  • DNA