Changes in the Zero-Point Energy of the Protons as the Source of the Binding Energy of Water to A-Phase DNA

G. F. Reiter, R. Senesi, and J. Mayers
Phys. Rev. Lett. 105, 148101 – Published 27 September 2010

Abstract

The measured changes in the zero-point kinetic energy of the protons are entirely responsible for the binding energy of water molecules to A phase DNA at the concentration of 6water molecules/base pair. The changes in kinetic energy can be expected to be a significant contribution to the energy balance in intracellular biological processes and the properties of nano-confined water. The shape of the momentum distribution in the dehydrated A phase is consistent with coherent delocalization of some of the protons in a double well potential, with a separation of the wells of 0.2 Å.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 23 February 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.105.148101

© 2010 The American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

G. F. Reiter1, R. Senesi2, and J. Mayers3

  • 1Physics Department, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77204, USA
  • 2Dipartimento di Fisica and Centro NAST, Università degli Studi di Roma “Tor Vergata”, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Roma, Italy
  • 3ISIS, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Chilton, Didcot, United Kingdom

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 105, Iss. 14 — 1 October 2010

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×