Abstract

We report the extension of the microcantilever platform to study the thermal phase transition of biomolecules as they are heated. Microcantilever-based sensors directly translate changes in Gibbs free energy due to macromolecular interactions into mechanical responses. We observe surface stress changes in response to thermal dehybridization of double-stranded DNA oligonucleotides that are attached onto one side of a microcantilever. Once the cantilever is heated, the DNA undergoes a transition as the complementary strand melts, which results in changes in the cantilever deflection. This deflection is due to changes in the electrostatic, ionic, and hydration interaction forces between the remaining immobilized DNA strands. This new technique has allowed us to probe DNA melting dynamics and leads to a better understanding of the stability of DNA complexes on surfaces. (JALA 2006;11:222–6)

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 call

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.