G-Quadruplexes

Home Projects > Bacterial disease > Calcium-binding proteins > G-quadruplexes > New methods People Collaboration Funding Publications

When we discuss DNA structure, the classical image of Watson and Crick's intertwined duplex DNA structure comes to mind. But the fact is that DNA can adopt a wide range of shapes and structures but we do not yet understand the exact function of each structure. G-quadruplexes consist of four-stranded DNA and they were long regarded as chemical curiosities. However, the COST action that we participate in (MP802) is looking at the potential technological application of self-assembled G-wires (molecular wires for circuits and computing) and the biological impact of G-quadruplexes on health and disease. It is tricky to biochemically characterize G-quadruplexes and NMR is one of the best methods available, although the large number of NMR signals makes it difficult to verify what is in the NMR tube, particularly if a mixture is present. We applied diffusion (DOSY) NMR methods to investigate G-quadruplex diffusion properties and determine if the DNA strands were associated into a quadruplex structure, or not. This work was performed in collaboration with UK scientists with bilateral funding for exchange visits. We would like to develop new STD protocols in order to screen small molecule libraries against G-quadruplexes in order to develop new drugs and molecular tools. However, there are several technical problems that cannot be overcome until we obtain funding. Evidence for the role of G-quadruplexes in biology is patchy and hindered by a lack of specific tools and protocols. In the future, Malgorzata wants to address this point, particularly with respect to the potential role of G-quadruplexes in neurobiology. This is an exciting, new field for which we have recently recieved funding. We expect to hire in 2012.