Equilibrium kinetics of self-assembling, semi-flexible polymers

TL;DR

This paper clarifies the equilibrium kinetics of self-assembling semi-flexible polymers by analyzing a minimal model, resolving conflicting accounts and identifying the correct kinetic scheme under specific conditions.

Contribution

It provides a dynamical description and establishes the correct kinetic scheme for equilibrium in high bonding energy and dilute conditions.

Findings

Identifies the proper kinetic scheme for equilibrium

Clarifies conflicting previous accounts

Focuses on a minimal overdamped model

Abstract

Self-assembling, semi-flexible polymers are ubiquitous in biology and technology. However, there remain conflicting accounts of the equilibrium kinetics for such an important system. Here, by focusing on a dynamical description of a minimal model in an overdamped environment, I identify the correct kinetic scheme that describes the system at equilibrium in the limits of high bonding energy and dilute concentration.