Segregation of semiflexible macromolecules in nanochannel

Investigation of segregation of polymer coils in open channel was extended relative to previous studies from flexible chains to semiflexible chains. Our results are based on simulation of confinement free energy of a chain in channel and on direct simulation of coil segregation process. For confinement free energy, we confirm the predicted opposite trend with increasing chain stiffness for the weak and for strong confinement regimes. Results of two different approaches are consistent, in agreement with theoretical analysis and indicate a stronger segregation tendency of flexible chains in channel relative to semiflexible chains both in its extent and dynamics.