An in silico design for a DNA nanomechanical switch.

Řeha, David; Voityuk, Alexander A; Harris, Sarah A · ACS Nano · 2010

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

We have calculated how the charge transfer properties of DNA change in response to the application of an external stretching force. Since charge transfer occurs through the DNA π-stack, any disruption to this stacking causes dramatic changes in the transport properties of the biomolecule, as our calculations demonstrate. We therefore propose that the mechanical response of DNA to an applied stretching force might be used in the design of a nanomechanical switch.

Medical subject headings