Complementary and partially complementary DNA duplexes tethered to a functionalized substrate: a molecular dynamics approach to biosensing

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2011 Jul 21;13(27):12478-87. doi: 10.1039/c1cp21115c. Epub 2011 Jun 9.

Abstract

Molecular dynamics simulations (90 ns) of different DNA complexes attached to a functionalized substrate in solution were performed in order to clarify the behavior of mismatched DNA sequences captured by a tethered DNA probe (biochip). Examination of the trajectories revealed that the substrate influence and a series of cooperative events, including recognition, reorientation and reorganization of the bases, could induce the formation of stable duplexes having non-canonical arrangements. Major adjustment of the structures was observed when the mutated base was located in the end region of the chain close to the surface.

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA Probes / chemistry
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation*
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Solutions / chemistry

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • Solutions
  • DNA