DNA pH dependance - Does pH affects DNA conformation and charge density ? (Mar/17/2005 )

I would like to know if double stranded DNA conformation and charge density change with pH of the solution, especially at low pH. If someone can answer to this I would really appreciate !

Thanks

Annie

Hi

Short answer yes... low pH can de-purinate the DNA expecially if it is single stranded, however I don't know about charge density, from what I remember of DNA structure, most of the reactive groups are involved in the linkages between bases, this is affected by the salt concentration and pH of the solution, but beyond that my chemistry fails me.

I would suggest an organic chemistry text for a more complete answer, or even a literature search on pubmed.

Hope this has helped.
Bob