Studies on the interaction between DNA and surfactant (II) -studies at molecular level based on conformational transition

The progress in the study of the interaction between DNA and surfactant in dilute solution was reviewed. The interaction leads to a two-stage binding process accompanied by the conformational transition of DNA from elongated coil to compact globule. The corresponding theoretical explanation was presented. The relative methods used in the study of the DNA's conformational transition were introduced, including heating-denature test, fluorescent spectrum,fluorescent microscopic technology and dynamic and static light scatterings etc. Besides, the perspective as well as the limiting elements of the complex formed by DNA and surfactant as the carrier of controlled genetic transfer was discussed briefly.