A Multidisciplinary approach to DNA Nano/Bio-Physics

Resum

DNA is a highly dynamic molecule where base pairs, which contain genetic information, can suffer large fluctuations. The structure of DNA has been widely studied and it is well-known. However, the understanding of its dynamics, which has a decisive influence on biological processes, is limited. The thesis is dedicated to the study of these dynamics during the thermal denaturation of DNA, which consists on the complete separation of the strands that form the double helix of DNA. We have explored the melting of DNA with different experimental and theoretical techniques and although is has been widely studied in solution, we have studied it in ordered samples, such as DNA fibers. It has been proposed: a theoretical model for the study of dynamics; Physical characterization of DNA denaturing transition; A synthesis method for the design of DNA fragments with controlled sequence, to study their flexibility, and characterization of A-DNA fibers by AFM-RAMAN microscopy.