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The double-stranded structure of DNA has two major advantages. First, it serves as a safe repository of genetic information where one strand serves as the back-up in case the other strand is damaged. Second, the double-helical structure can be wrapped around proteins called histones to form nucleosomes, which can then be tightly wound to form chromosomes. This way, DNA chains up to 2 inches long can be contained within microscopic structures in a cell. A double-stranded break not only damages...
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Backbone-mediated electrical transport in double-stranded DNA.

Sourav Kundu1, Siddhartha Lal1

  • 1Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Department of Physical Sciences, Mohanpur, West Bengal 741246, India.

Physical Review. E
|August 19, 2025
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Electronic charge transport in DNA may occur through backbones, not bases. Two backbone "nicks" can completely block current in GC-rich DNA due to quantum interference.

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Area of Science:

  • DNA nanotechnology
  • Molecular electronics
  • Condensed matter physics

Background:

  • Conventional understanding posits charge transport in DNA occurs via π-stacked bases.
  • Recent experiments suggest backbone channels are primary for electronic transport.
  • This challenges established models and necessitates further theoretical investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate charge transport properties of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) focusing on backbone channels.
  • To analyze the impact of backbone discontinuities ('nicks') on DNA's electronic transport.
  • To explore sequence-dependent transport behavior (GC, AT, and random ATGC) and its implications.

Main Methods:

  • Employed a tight-binding model with Green's function method to study DNA electronic structure.
  • Calculated single-particle density of states and localization properties.
  • Utilized Landauer-Büttiker formalism in a two-terminal setup to simulate current-voltage response.

Main Results:

  • Periodic GC dsDNA exhibits metallic behavior, while periodic AT and random ATGC dsDNA are insulating.
  • A single backbone nick has minimal impact on electronic transport in GC dsDNA.
  • Two nicks on opposite backbones in GC dsDNA completely abolish current, a robust phenomenon.

Conclusions:

  • Backbone channels are significant for charge transport in dsDNA, contrary to base-stacking theories.
  • Quantum interference between two backbone nicks causes complete electronic insulation in specific DNA sequences.
  • Findings provide new insights into DNA's electronic properties and potential applications in molecular electronics.