Controlling the intrachain segregation on a single DNA molecule

J Am Chem Soc. 2003 Apr 16;125(15):4414-5. doi: 10.1021/ja028804x.

Abstract

Intrachain segregation in single DNA molecules induced by quaternary ammonium dications was studied. By means of fluorescent and electron microscopy, it was found that variations in the chemical structure of condensing agents provide one with the opportunity to control the average amount of intrachain segregation centers on the DNA single chain. The manner of interaction between the diammonium molecules was considered to be the key factor for controlling the morphology of the partially collapsed DNA molecules.

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriophage T4 / genetics
  • Chromosome Segregation*
  • DNA, Viral / chemistry*
  • DNA, Viral / genetics
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds / chemistry*

Substances

  • DNA, Viral
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds