Polymer Length Governs DNA Adsorption Dynamics on Mineral Surfaces.

ABSTRACT: DNA adsorption onto mineral surfaces plays a crucial role in controlling its biogeochemical cycling, environmental stability, and accessibility for diverse environmental DNA (eDNA) applications. While eDNA exists in a wide range of polymer lengths, a limited understanding of how DNA polymer length influences adsorption and competition on mineral surfaces hinders accurate interpretations of its mobility and persistence in natural systems. Here, we address this knowledge gap by investigating the role of DNA polymer length (99 bp to ∼20,000 bp) on interactions with selected environmentally relevant minerals, including Fe(III)-(oxyhydr)oxides (goethite, 2-line ferrihydrite), clays (kaolinite, montmorillonite) and hydroxyapatite. Controlled batch experiments at neutral pH show that adsorption f

SUBMITTER: Singh VV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12489982 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature