DNA condensation at freestanding cationic lipid bilayers

Phys Rev Lett. 2010 Apr 9;104(14):148102. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.148102. Epub 2010 Apr 5.

Abstract

We describe a previously unreported coil-globule transition of DNA electrostatically bound to a freestanding fluid cationic lipid membrane. The collapse of a DNA coil into a compact globule takes place after the DNA molecule attaches in an extended conformation to the membrane. DNA condensation is favored at a higher cationic lipid content, while at lower membrane charge densities coexistence of DNA random coils, partially collapsed conformations, and globules is observed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Cell Membrane / chemistry
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA / metabolism
  • Lipid Bilayers / chemistry*
  • Lipid Bilayers / metabolism
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Static Electricity

Substances

  • Lipid Bilayers
  • DNA