The dynamics of the DNA denaturation transition

Abstract

The dynamics of the DNA denaturation is studied using the Peyrard-Bishop-Dauxois model. The denaturation rate of double stranded polymers decreases exponentially as a function of length below the denaturation temperature. Above Tc, the rate shows a minimum, but then increases as a function of length. We also examine the influence of sequence and solvent friction. Molecules having the same number of weak and strong base-pairs can have significantly different opening rates depending on the order of base-pairs.