Abstract. Guided by the idea of the order parameter of Landau, we have analysed the structure and various nonlinear motions in DNA. We argue for the use of four significant variables, i.e., the conformational, rotational, longitudinal and transverse motions. Several sets of nonlinear discrete equations with more reasonable Hamiltonian have been established, the solutions of small amplitude (phonons) and large amplitude (soliton or solitary waves) have been given. The results have been discussed and compared with several experimental data. We comment speculatively on the possible significant implications in duplication, transcription and drug intercalation in DNA, etc..

Print publication: Issue 3 (1991)
Received 31 May 1990