Dynamics of Large Semiflexible Chains Probed by Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy was used to probe the dynamics of $\lambda$-phage DNA in aqueous solution labeled with the randomly intercalating dye TOTO. The linear macromolecules (i) carry more than one chromophore and (ii) are larger than the waist of the focal volume. The correlation function decays significantly faster than expected for a stiff globule of corresponding size but is in good agreement with the dynamic model of semiflexible chains including hydrodynamic interactions. As the chromophore density is lowered the correlation time decreases in accordance with this model.