Rotation of DNA in electric field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of DNA molecules in an electric field, specifically their ability to orient and rotate along the field lines due to their negative charge. It is confirmed that in techniques like Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, the electric field effectively aligns DNA molecules. The orientation of DNA in the field is influenced by charge distribution, but there are no barriers preventing them from moving towards the positive electrode.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of DNA molecular structure and charge properties
  • Knowledge of electric fields and their effects on charged particles
  • Familiarity with Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis techniques
  • Basic principles of molecular orientation in solutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis in detail
  • Explore the effects of electric fields on charged biomolecules
  • Learn about charge distribution in DNA and its implications
  • Investigate molecular dynamics simulations of DNA in electric fields
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in molecular biology, biophysicists, and professionals involved in DNA manipulation and analysis techniques, particularly those utilizing electrophoresis methods.

Eagle9
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As known the DNA molecule has got negative electric charge. Imagine that linear (almost like a straight arrow) DNA is placed in water solution and we turn the electric field on. I would like to know if the DNA molecules can orientate/rotate so that they to stay along the field lines of the electric field.
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I have heard that that in Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis exactly this approach is used: the electric field can orientate the DNA molecules.

So, is it possible? :rolleyes:
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Eagle9 said:
As known the DNA molecule has got negative electric charge. Imagine that linear (almost like a straight arrow) DNA is placed in water solution and we turn the electric field on. I would like to know if the DNA molecules can orientate/rotate so that they to stay along the field lines of the electric field.
What prevents them from moving towards the positive electrode?

I guess the orientation will depend on the charge distribution.
 
mfb
What prevents them from moving towards the positive electrode?
Of course nothing
I guess the orientation will depend on the charge distribution.
Perhaps
But I want to know if they are arranged along the field lines or not :rolleyes:
 

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