Extensive all-atom molecular dynamics simulations were performed to characterize the microscopic origin of the force experienced by DNA in a bulk electrolyte and a solid-state nanopore when subject to an external electrostatic field $E$. The effective screening of the DNA charge was found to originate from the hydrodynamic drag of the electro-osmotic flow that is driven by the motion of counterions along the surface of DNA. We show that the effective driving force $F$ in a nanopore obeys the same law as in a bulk electrolyte: $F=\xi \mu E$, where $\xi$ and $\mu$ are the friction coefficient and electrophoretic mobility of DNA, respectively. Using this relationship, we suggest a method for determining the effective driving force on DNA in a nanopore that does not require a direct force measurement.

• Received 29 October 2007

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.78.021912