The calculation of the energy of transition associated with inversions in double-stranded DNA using a rising temperature method

Inspection of the literature has shown that in carefully buffered aqueous solutions, DNA will undergo a reversible inversion between ambient and 90 degrees C. The process of the inversions is followed by UV absorbance of the DNA strand when it is heated and can also be followed using micro-DSC. The data are recorded as temperature against extent of the process and the midpoint is often termed 'inversion or melting'. If the extent of the process is designated by theta, and the temperature by T, then the general process of rising temperature kinetic evaluation can be applied. This is the basis for a kinetic analysis of a number of transitions. This approach is investigated in the present study.