Polymerase chain reaction in natural convection systems: A convection-diffusion-reaction model

• Published in: Europhysics letters Vol. 71; no. 6; pp. 1008 - 1014
• Main Authors: Yariv, E, Ben-Dov, G, Dorfman, K. D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: IOP Publishing 01.09.2005; EDP Sciences
• Subjects: 82.39.-k; 87.15.Rn
• ISSN: 0295-5075; 1286-4854
• DOI: 10.1209/epl/i2005-10171-6

We present a rational scheme for modeling natural convection-driven polymerase chain reaction (PCR), where many copies of a DNA template are made by cycling between hot and cold regions via a circulatory, buoyancy-driven flow. This process is described here in the framework of multiple-species formulation, using evolution equations which govern the concentrations of the various DNA species in the carrying solution. In the intermediate asymptotic limit, where a stationary amplification rate is achieved, these equations provide an eigenvalue problem for computing the exponential amplification rate of double-stranded DNA. The scheme is demonstrated using a simplified model of a Rayleigh-Bénard cell. In contrast to what may have been anticipated, diffusion tends to enhance the growth rate. The present model, intended to be used as a template for more device-specific analyses, provides a starting point for understanding the effects of the competing mechanisms (reaction, convection and diffusion) upon the amplification efficiency.