Single strand breaks are induced in DNA plasmids, pBR322 and pUC19, in aqueous media exposed to strong fields generated using ultrashort laser pulses (820 nm wavelength, 45 fs pulse duration, 1 kHz repetition rate) at intensities of $1–12\mathrm{TW}{\mathrm{cm}}^{-2}$. The strong fields generate, in situ, electrons and radicals that induce transformation of supercoiled DNA into relaxed DNA, the extent of which is quantified. Introduction of electron and radical scavengers inhibits DNA damage; results indicate that OH radicals are the primary (but not sole) cause of DNA damage.

• Received 10 June 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.106.118101