The homology recognition well as an innate property of DNA structure

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0811208106
• Publication Date: 2009-03-10T01:39:22Z
• Authors: Alexei A. Kornyshev; Aaron Wynveen
• Keywords: Homology; Electrostatics

Mutual recognition of homologous sequences DNA before strand exchange is considered to be the most puzzling stage recombination genes. In 2001, a mechanism was suggested for double-stranded molecule recognize from distance its match in electrolytic solution without unzipping [Kornyshev AA, Leikin S (2001) Phys Rev Lett 86:3666-3669]. Based on theory electrostatic interactions between helical molecules, difference interaction energy duplexes and nonhomologous duplexes, called energy, calculated. Here, we report theoretical investigation form potential well that molecules may feel sliding along each other. This well, bottom which determined by leads trapping molecular tracks same homology direct juxtaposition. A simple formula shape obtained. The quasi-exponential. Its half-width coherence length, introduced first 2001 article, value which, as latest study shows, approximately 10 nm.