Molecular expansion of an individual coiled DNA on a graphite surface

Langmuir. 2011 Mar 15;27(6):2405-10. doi: 10.1021/la104776n. Epub 2011 Feb 22.

Abstract

Direct visualization and manipulation of a single polymer on a solid surface in fluid can greatly contribute to our understanding of polymer dynamics and physics relevant to many practical applications. In this paper, the authors report a novel phenomenon that a randomly coiled DNA molecule can be gradually expanded to form a spiral-like pattern by repeatedly rotating a water droplet on a graphite surface where the DNA molecule was deposited. The process of DNA expansion was traced using atomic force microscopy relocation imaging. A simple theoretical model based on the analysis of centrifugal and resistant forces exerted on the DNA molecule during the manipulation was presented to explain the formation of the spiral-like pattern. This study should provide us insight into the movement of polymers on a solid surface under fluid flow.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Bacteriophage lambda
  • DNA, Viral / chemistry*
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Particle Size
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • DNA, Viral
  • Graphite