Yu Z, Cowan JA. Metal complexes promoting catalytic cleavage of nucleic acids-biochemical tools and therapeutics.
Curr Opin Chem Biol 2018;
43:37-42. [PMID:
29153936 PMCID:
PMC5847438 DOI:
10.1016/j.cbpa.2017.10.029]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The development of metal complexes that promote degradation of nucleic acids has garnered significant interest as a result of their broad range of potential application. This review focuses on recent progress in the design and synthesis of metal complexes as artificial nucleases that promote either hydrolytic or oxidative cleavage of nucleic acids. Illustrative examples demonstrate the versatility of artificial nucleases for in vitro applications as molecular tools to address biochemical problems, as well as their potential use as therapeutic agents. We also address future challenges for improvement and avenues for further investigation.
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