Mechanical activation of DNA transport across single-walled carbon nanotubes

Abstract We employed molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the directed transport of a double-stranded oligonucleotide (dsDNA) through a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) powered by external mechanical vibrations. It is thermodynamically favorable for dsDNA to adsorb inside the SWNT, and its transport through the nanotube is challenging due to the high energy barrier. However, we demonstrate that mechanical vibrations at specific frequencies can effectively drive the dsDNA through the nanotube based on a ratchet effect. The system is driven away from thermal equilibrium, and the spatial inversion symmetry is broken by mechanical vibrations. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of mechanically activated DNA transport and highlights the potential of using SWNTs as nanoscale conduits for dsDNA delivery in nanobiotechnology and biomedicine.