Abstract
We study a simple model of DNA cationic surfactant complexation. It is found that a combination of electrostatic and hydrophobic effects leads to a cooperative binding transition in which a large fraction of the DNA's charge is neutralized by the condensed cationic surfactants. A further increase of surfactant density can result in charge inversion of the DNA–surfactant complexes. This regime should be of particular interest for application to gene therapy. In this paper we shall explore the dependence of the cooperative binding on hydrophobic interactions between the DNA and amphiphilic molecules.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
