Statistical mechanics of a nonlinear model for DNA denaturation

M. Peyrard; A. R. Bishop

doi:10.1103/PhysRevLett.62.2755

Statistical mechanics of a nonlinear model for DNA denaturation

M. Peyrard and A. R. Bishop

Phys. Rev. Lett. 62, 2755 – Published 5 June 1989

Abstract

We investigate the statistical mechanics of a simple lattice model for the denaturation of the DNA double helix. The model consists of two chains connected by Morse potentials representing the H bonds. We determine the temperature dependence of the interstrand separation and we show that a mechanism involving an energy localization analogous to self-focusing may initiate the denaturation.

Received 19 December 1988

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.62.2755

Authors & Affiliations

M. Peyrard

Laboratoire ORC, Faculté des Sciences, 6, boulevard Gabriel, 21100 Dijon, France
Center for Nonlinear Studies, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545

A. R. Bishop