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klotza submitted a new PF Insights post
Polymer Physics and Genetic Sequencing
Continue reading the Original PF Insights Post.
Polymer Physics and Genetic Sequencing
Continue reading the Original PF Insights Post.
Nice, Alex. Molecular dynamics simulation algorithms have been making great strides lately, and I don't believe it's beyond hope that DNA+solvent inside and outside a nanopore can now be modeled. For example, membrane proteins with lipid bilayers and water have been modeled. Or, at least on very short timescales (micro-s ?) they can. Have you used this modeling technique in your research? Has anyone?Mark Harder said:
Polymer physics is the study of the physical properties and behavior of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating subunits. Genetic sequencing involves determining the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, which is a type of polymer. The principles of polymer physics are essential for understanding and interpreting the structure and function of DNA, as well as for developing techniques for genetic sequencing.
Question 2:Polymers, specifically synthetic polymers, are used in genetic sequencing techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing. These polymers act as templates or scaffolds for the replication and sequencing of DNA molecules.
Question 3:Temperature plays a crucial role in both polymer physics and genetic sequencing. In polymer physics, temperature affects the physical properties and behavior of polymers, such as their elasticity and melting point. In genetic sequencing, temperature is used to control the activity of enzymes, such as DNA polymerases, which are essential for replicating and sequencing DNA molecules.
Question 4:One of the limitations of polymer physics in genetic sequencing is that it does not account for the complex interactions and dynamics that occur in biological systems. This can lead to challenges in accurately predicting and understanding the behavior of DNA molecules in living organisms. Additionally, polymers used in genetic sequencing techniques may not accurately represent the structure and properties of natural DNA molecules.
Question 5:Polymer physics and genetic sequencing are being used in a wide range of current research, from developing more efficient and accurate genetic sequencing techniques to understanding the role of DNA structure and dynamics in diseases. Some specific applications include identifying genetic mutations in cancer cells, studying the folding and unfolding of DNA molecules, and designing new synthetic polymers for gene editing and delivery.