Long-range interactions and wave patterns in a DNA model

Eur Phys J E Soft Matter. 2010 Jul;32(3):327-32. doi: 10.1140/epje/i2010-10627-x. Epub 2010 Jul 30.

Abstract

We propose a spin-like model of DNA nonlinear dynamics with long-range interactions between adjacent base pairs. We show that the model equation is a modified sine-Gordon equation. We perform the linear stability analysis of a plane wave, which predicts high-amplitude and extended oscillating waves for high values of the long-range parameter. This is confirmed numerically and biological implications of the obtained patterns are suggested.

MeSH terms

  • Base Pairing*
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Nonlinear Dynamics

Substances

  • DNA