Conformational dynamics and internal friction in homo-polymer globules: equilibrium vs. non-equilibrium simulations
We study the conformational dynamics within homo-polymer globules by solvent-implicit Brownian dynamics simulations. A strong dependence of the internal chain dynamics on the Lennard-Jones cohesion strength ε and the globule size NG is observed. We find two distinct dynamical regimes: a liquid- like regime (for ε < εs) with fast internal dynamics and a solid-like regime (for ε > εs) with slow internal dynamics. The cohesion strength εs of this freezing transition depends on NG. Equilibrium simulations, where we investigate the diffusional chain dynamics within the globule, are compared with non-equilibrium simulations, where we unfold the globule by pulling the chain ends with prescribed velocity (encompassing low enough velocities so that the linear-response, viscous regime is reached). From both simulation protocols we derive the internal viscosity within the globule. In the liquid-like regime the internal friction increases continuously with ε and scales extensive in NG. This suggests an internal friction scenario where the entire chain (or an extensive fraction thereof) takes part in conformational reorganization of the globular structure.