A new method for the covalent attachment of DNA to a surface for single-molecule studies

▶ New method to covalently attach DNA to a surface using silane-PEG-NHS. ▶ The method creates a PEG monolayer to decrease non-specific adsorption. ▶ Method withstands higher pulling forces for longer times. ▶ Can pull DNA with an optical trap through its overstretching transition many times.