The 3-dimensional random walk with applications to overstretched DNA and the protein titin

We study the three-dimensional persistent random walk with drift. Then we develop a thermodynamic model that is based on this random walk without assuming the Boltzmann-Gibbs form for the equilibrium distribution. The simplicity of the model allows us to perform all calculations in closed form. We show that, despite its simplicity, the model can be used to describe different polymer stretching experiments. We study the reversible overstretching transition of DNA and the static force-extension relation of the protein titin. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.