DNA single strands tethered to fused quartz/water interfaces studied by second harmonic generation.
Second harmonic generation (SHG) is used to study oligonucleotides at aqueous/solid interfaces for the first time. Detailed thermodynamic state information for interfacial DNA single strands, namely, the interfacial charge density, the interfacial potential, and the change in the interfacial energy density, is obtained. The phosphate groups on the DNA backbone serve as intrinsic labels that do not require DNA modification other than surface attachment. This approach is broadly applicable for the investigation of DNA during its interaction with biological targets, as well as charged biopolymers in general, and has important implications for predicting and controlling macromolecular interactions, improving biodiagnostics, and understanding life processes.
Boman
Faith C
FC
Department of Chemistry and Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
Musorrafiti
Michael J
MJ
Gibbs
Julianne M
JM
Stepp
Brian R
BR
Salazar
Anne M
AM
Nguyen
SonBinh T
ST
Geiger
Franz M
FM
D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents / Q000737:chemistry; D004277:DNA, Single-Stranded / Q000737:chemistry*; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D011791:Quartz / Q000737:chemistry; D013057:Spectrum Analysis; D055672:Static Electricity; D014867:Water / Q000737:chemistry
D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D004277:DNA, Single-Stranded; D014867:Water; D011791:Quartz