Cis-Isomers of Photosensitive Cationic Azobenzene Surfactants in DNA Solutions at Different NaCl Concentrations: Experiment and Modeling

J Phys Chem B. 2021 Oct 14;125(40):11197-11207. doi: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.1c07864. Epub 2021 Sep 29.

Abstract

The DNA interaction with cis-isomers of photosensitive azobenzene-containing surfactants was studied by both experimental methods and computer simulation. It was shown that before the organization of micelles, such surfactants in the cis-conformation form associates of only a single type with a disordered orientation of molecules. In contrast, for trans-isomers, there exist two types of associates with head-to-head or head-to-tail orientations of molecules in dependence on salt concentration in a solution. The comparison of cis- and trans-isomer binding to DNA and the influence of salt concentration on the formation of their complexes with DNA were studied. It was shown that cis-isomers interact with phosphate groups of DNA and that their molecules were also located along the minor groove of DNA.

MeSH terms

  • Azo Compounds
  • Computer Simulation
  • DNA
  • Sodium Chloride*
  • Surface-Active Agents*

Substances

  • Azo Compounds
  • Surface-Active Agents
  • Sodium Chloride
  • DNA
  • azobenzene