TY - JOUR
T1 - The polymer physics of single DNA confined in nanochannels
AU - Dai, Liang
AU - Renner, C. Benjamin
AU - Doyle, Patrick S.
PY - 2016/6
Y1 - 2016/6
N2 - In recent years, applications and experimental studies of DNA in nanochannels have stimulated the investigation of the polymer physics of DNA in confinement. Recent advances in the physics of confined polymers, using DNA as a model polymer, have moved beyond the classic Odijk theory for the strong confinement, and the classic blob theory for the weak confinement. In this review, we present the current understanding of the behaviors of confined polymers while briefly reviewing classic theories. Three aspects of confined DNA are presented: static, dynamic, and topological properties. The relevant simulation methods are also summarized. In addition, comparisons of confined DNA with DNA under tension and DNA in semidilute solution are made to emphasize universal behaviors. Finally, an outlook of the possible future research for confined DNA is given.
AB - In recent years, applications and experimental studies of DNA in nanochannels have stimulated the investigation of the polymer physics of DNA in confinement. Recent advances in the physics of confined polymers, using DNA as a model polymer, have moved beyond the classic Odijk theory for the strong confinement, and the classic blob theory for the weak confinement. In this review, we present the current understanding of the behaviors of confined polymers while briefly reviewing classic theories. Three aspects of confined DNA are presented: static, dynamic, and topological properties. The relevant simulation methods are also summarized. In addition, comparisons of confined DNA with DNA under tension and DNA in semidilute solution are made to emphasize universal behaviors. Finally, an outlook of the possible future research for confined DNA is given.
KW - Confinement
KW - DNA
KW - Monte Carlo simulation
KW - Nanochannel
KW - Polymer physics
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=84953438875&partnerID=8YFLogxK
UR - https://www.scopus.com/record/pubmetrics.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84953438875&origin=recordpage
U2 - 10.1016/j.cis.2015.12.002
DO - 10.1016/j.cis.2015.12.002
M3 - RGC 21 - Publication in refereed journal
C2 - 26782150
SN - 0001-8686
VL - 232
SP - 80
EP - 100
JO - Advances in Colloid and Interface Science
JF - Advances in Colloid and Interface Science
ER -