Direct detection of inter-residue hydrogen bonds in polysaccharides by single-molecule force spectroscopy

Abstract

The elasticity of single amylose chains in solvents that promote or inhibit the formation of inter-residue hydrogen bonds was examined by AFM (see picture). Hydrogen bonds were found to rigidify the amylose chain in solvents of low dielectric constant, and the (Chemical Equation Presented) strength of inter-residue hydrogen bonds in sugars can be measured.