We propose a model Hamiltonian for charge transfer along the DNA double helix with temperature-driven fluctuations in the base pair positions acting as the rate limiting factor for charge transfer between neighboring base pairs. We compare the predictions of the model with the recent work of Barton and Zewail on the unusual two-stage charge transfer of DNA.

• Received 2 May 2000

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.85.4393