Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
pi bonds, DNA strand, RNA, bioelectronics
College
Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Department
Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
Determining properties of DNA and RNA, such as conductivity of the strands, could be essential in the development of bioelectronics. Both DNA and RNA have pi bonds, which form when an electron is ‘shared’ between multiple atoms. The electrons forming pi bonds may be able to flow through a DNA strand much like electrons flow through wires when a voltage difference is introduced across the ends of the DNA strand. Some of the major difficulties in doing this for other researchers have been laying the stand across the electrodes and characterizing the connection between the electrode and the DNA. If the connection between the DNA and the electrode does not allow electrons to flow from one to the other, nothing can really be said about the conductivity of DNA.
Recommended Citation
Sill (McElroy), Kaylee and Davis, Dr. Robert
(2013)
"DNA/RNA Conductivity,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 2741.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/2741