Complexes of cationic block copolymer micelles with DNA: histone/DNA complex mimetics.
The formation of complexes between cationic polymeric micelles of PS-b-PQ2VP amphiphilic block copolymers and DNA molecules in aqueous solutions is investigated at pH = 7. The physicochemical characteristics of the "polyplexes" at different DNA/polymer ratios were characterized in terms of mass, size and charge using static, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering and AFM. The complexes are spherical and assume their maximum size and mass around the charge stoichiometric ratio. After addition of increased amounts of salt in the solutions, partial dissociation of the systems was observed. The present systems can be considered as mimetics of histone/DNA complexes formed under physiological conditions in living cells.
Talelli
Marina
M
Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vass. Constantinou Ave., 116 35 Athens, Greece.
Pispas
Stergios
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D000818:Animals; D040761:Biomimetic Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D002412:Cations / Q000737:chemistry*; D004247:DNA / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005399:Fishes; D006657:Histones / Q000737:chemistry*; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration / Q000187:drug effects; D008027:Light; D008823:Micelles; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D012492:Salts / Q000494:pharmacology; D012542:Scattering, Radiation
D002412:Cations; D006657:Histones; D008823:Micelles; D011108:Polymers; D012492:Salts; D004247:DNA