Effects of pressure on the helix–coil transitions of the poly A–poly U system

Abstract

Abstract Studies were made of the influence of hydrostatic pressure on the helix–coil transitions of poly (A + U) and poly (A + 2U). The results were analyzed by a thermodynamic treatment which emphasized the cooperative aspect of the transitions. The helix‐to‐coil volume changes were found to be small and negative indicating pressure stabilization of the coil form. The significance of the results with respect to other denaturation measurements was discussed.