Models of DNA-dye-complexes: Energy transfer and molecular structures as evaluated by laser excitation

Abstract

Energy transfer in DNA-dye-complexes after excitation in the UV down to 220 nm by means of a tunable laser was investigated. DNA of different base composition and polynucleotides were compared. The dyes proflavine, acridine orange and ethidium bromide were used. The energy transfer from DNA-bases to dye molecules was measured in dependence of the excitation wavelength and the base composition of the DNA. Models of the energy transfer from DNA to dye and of the molecular structures of the DNA-dye-complex (intercalation) could be deduced.