Intrinsic Stepwise Translocation of Stretched ssDNA in Graphene Nanopores.

ABSTRACT: We investigate by means of molecular dynamics simulations stretch-induced stepwise translocation of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) through graphene nanopores. The intrinsic stepwise DNA motion, found to be largely independent of size and shape of the graphene nanopore, is brought about through alternating conformational changes between spontaneous adhesion of DNA bases to the rim of the graphene nanopore and unbinding due to mechanical force or electric field. The adhesion reduces the DNA bases' vertical conformational fluctuations, facilitating base detection and recognition. A graphene membrane shaped as a quantum point contact permits, by means of transverse electronic conductance measurement, detection of the stepwise translocation of the DNA as predicted through quantum mechanical Green'

SUBMITTER: Qiu H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4676420 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature