On the asymmetric elasticity of twisted dsDNA

Zicong Zhou and Pik-Yin Lai

Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, 2005, vol. 350, issue 1, 70-83

Abstract: We present an analytical-based proof for the consistency of two asymmetric elastic models of the double-stranded DNA in the regime around the B-form. We derive the shape equations in terms of Euler angles for a uniform ribbon with noncircular cross section and spontaneous torsion. We study the conditions to form a helical ribbon for the model and find that the Euler angle ψ must be either 0 or π/2. We find that the helix is always stable or at least metastable for the model, and there is either a continuous or discontinuous transition of extension, from a twisted straight ribbon to a helical ribbon. An “over-collapse” phenomena of extension is observed for the ribbon under twisting. The stability of the helix and the intrinsic asymmetric elasticity under twisting are also studied.

Keywords: Biopolymer; dsDNA; Elasticity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2005
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:350:y:2005:i:1:p:70-83

DOI: 10.1016/j.physa.2004.11.031

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