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Leisegang MS, Warwick T, Stötzel J, Brandes RP. RNA-DNA triplexes: molecular mechanisms and functional relevance. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:532-544. [PMID: 38582689 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Interactions of RNA with DNA are principles of gene expression control that have recently gained considerable attention. Among RNA-DNA interactions are R-loops and RNA-DNA hybrid G-quadruplexes, as well as RNA-DNA triplexes. It is proposed that RNA-DNA triplexes guide RNA-associated regulatory proteins to specific genomic locations, influencing transcription and epigenetic decision making. Although triplex formation initially was considered solely an in vitro event, recent progress in computational, biochemical, and biophysical methods support in vivo functionality with relevance for gene expression control. Here, we review the central methodology and biology of triplexes, outline paradigms required for triplex function, and provide examples of physiologically important triplex-forming long non-coding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias S Leisegang
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Timothy Warwick
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Julia Stötzel
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ralf P Brandes
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
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2
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Domínguez A, Gargallo R, Cuestas-Ayllón C, Grazu V, Fàbrega C, Valiuska S, Noé V, Ciudad CJ, Calderon EJ, de la Fuente JM, Eritja R, Aviñó A. Biophysical evaluation of antiparallel triplexes for biosensing and biomedical applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130540. [PMID: 38430998 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Polypyrimidine sequences can be targeted by antiparallel clamps forming triplex structures either for biosensing or therapeutic purposes. Despite its successful implementation, their biophysical properties remain to be elusive. In this work, PAGE, circular dichroism and multivariate analysis were used to evaluate the properties of PPRHs directed to SARS-CoV-2 genome. Several PPRHs designed to target various polypyrimidine sites within the viral genome were synthesized. These PPRHs displayed varying binding affinities, influenced by factors such as the length of the PPRH and its GC content. The number and position of pyrimidine interruptions relative to the 4 T loop of the PPRH was found a critical factor, affecting the binding affinity with the corresponding target. Moreover, these factors also showed to affect in the intramolecular and intermolecular equilibria of PPRHs alone and when hybridized to their corresponding targets, highlighting the polymorphic nature of these systems. Finally, the functionality of the PPRHs was evaluated in a thermal lateral flow sensing device showing a good correspondence between their biophysical properties and detection limits. These comprehensive studies contribute to the understanding of the critical factors involved in the design of PPRHs for effective targeting of biologically relevant genomes through the formation of triplex structures under neutral conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnau Domínguez
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raimundo Gargallo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Cuestas-Ayllón
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Valeria Grazu
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carme Fàbrega
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Simonas Valiuska
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences and Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Véronique Noé
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences and Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos J Ciudad
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences and Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrique J Calderon
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas/Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Martínez de la Fuente
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ramon Eritja
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Anna Aviñó
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Du M, Cheng X, Chen Q, Xu X. A novel and sensitive electrochemical aptasensor for sulfadimethoxine detection based on the triple helix/exonuclease I-assisted double-amplification strategy. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2024; 16:1570-1578. [PMID: 38407003 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay02157b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
In this paper, a novel and sensitive electrochemical aptasensor for sulfadimethoxine (SDM) detection has been designed based on the triple helix structure/exonuclease I (Exo I)-assisted double signal amplification strategy. The aptamer probe (Apt) hybridizes with the signal transduction probe (STP) on the electrode to form a rigid double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) structure, so that the STP remains upright and methylene blue (MB) on the STP is far away from the electrode surface, resulting in a delicate current signal. In the presence of SDM, the SDM and Apt combine into a complex, leading to the transfer of the Apt and the exposure of the STP. Meanwhile, the added Exo I can digest the Apt to realize the cyclic amplification of SDM. After the addition of the signal probe (SP), a triple helix structure between the SP and STP is formed under acidic conditions, and MB on the STP and SP collide with the electrode surface to generate a strong electrochemical signal. The proposed aptasensor combines the features of the triple helix structure and Exo I to achieve double signal amplification for the sensitive detection of SDM with a wide linear range of 0.05-1000 ng mL-1 and a low detection limit of 0.02 ng mL-1. Furthermore, it has been successfully used to detect SDM in milk and lake water samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijuan Du
- Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, MOE, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection for Food Safety, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
| | - Xin Cheng
- Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, MOE, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection for Food Safety, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
| | - Qian Chen
- Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, MOE, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection for Food Safety, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
| | - Xueqin Xu
- Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, MOE, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection for Food Safety, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
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Klose JW, Begbie AJ, Toronjo-Urquiza L, Pukala TL. Native Mass Spectrometric Insights into the Formation and Stability of DNA Triplexes. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:613-621. [PMID: 38393825 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.3c00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleic acid is a genetic biomacromolecule that contains the inherited information required to build and maintain a living organism. While the canonical duplex DNA structure is rigorously characterized, the structure and function of higher order DNA structures such as DNA triplexes are comparatively poorly understood. Previous literature has shown that these triplexes can form under physiological conditions, and native mass spectrometry offers a useful platform to study their formation and stability. However, experimental conditions including buffer salt concentration, pH, and instrumentation parameters such as ion mode can confound analysis by impacting the amount of triplex observed by mass spectrometry. Using model 30mer Y-type triplex sequences, we demonstrate the influence a range of experimental variables have on the detection of DNA triplex structures, informing suitable conditions for the study. When carefully considered conditions are used, mass spectrometry offers a powerful complementary tool for the analysis of higher order DNA assemblies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack W Klose
- Discipline of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Alexander J Begbie
- Discipline of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Luis Toronjo-Urquiza
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Tara L Pukala
- Discipline of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
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5
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Grasso N, Graziano R, Marzano S, D'Aria F, Merlino F, Grieco P, Randazzo A, Pagano B, Amato J. Unveiling the interaction between DNA G-quadruplexes and RG-rich peptides. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126749. [PMID: 37689293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes are non-canonical DNA secondary structures formed within guanine-rich strands that play important roles in various biological processes, including gene regulation, telomere maintenance and DNA replication. The biological functions and formation of these DNA structures are strictly controlled by several proteins that bind and stabilize or resolve them. Many G-quadruplex-binding proteins feature an arginine and glycine-rich motif known as the RGG or RG-rich motif. Although this motif plays a crucial role in the recognition of such non-canonical structures, their interaction is still poorly understood. Here, we employed a combination of several biophysical techniques to provide valuable insights into the interaction between a peptide containing an RGG motif shared by numerous human G-quadruplex-binding proteins (NIQI) and various biologically relevant G-quadruplex DNA structures with different topologies. We also shed light on the key amino acids involved in the binding process. Our findings contribute to lay the basis for the development of a new class of peptide-based G-quadruplex ligands as an alternative to small molecules. These ligands may serve as valid tools for interfering in DNA-protein interactions, with potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Grasso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Graziano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Marzano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica D'Aria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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6
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Meier CS, Pagni M, Richard S, Mühlethaler K, Almeida JMGCF, Nevez G, Cushion MT, Calderón EJ, Hauser PM. Fungal antigenic variation using mosaicism and reassortment of subtelomeric genes' repertoires. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7026. [PMID: 37919276 PMCID: PMC10622565 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42685-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Surface antigenic variation is crucial for major pathogens that infect humans. To escape the immune system, they exploit various mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is important to better prevent and fight the deadly diseases caused. Those used by the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii that causes life-threatening pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals remain poorly understood. Here, though this fungus is currently not cultivable, our detailed analysis of the subtelomeric sequence motifs and genes encoding surface proteins suggests that the system involves the reassortment of the repertoire of ca. 80 non-expressed genes present in each strain, from which single genes are retrieved for mutually exclusive expression. Dispersion of the new repertoires, supposedly by healthy carrier individuals, appears very efficient because identical alleles are observed in patients from different countries. Our observations reveal a unique strategy of antigenic variation. They also highlight the possible role in genome rearrangements of small imperfect mirror sequences forming DNA triplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Meier
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marco Pagni
- Vital-IT Group, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Richard
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Konrad Mühlethaler
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - João M G C F Almeida
- UCIBIO, Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Gilles Nevez
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie, Hôpital de La Cavale Blanche, CHU de Brest, Brest, France
- Infections respiratoires fongiques (IFR), Université d'Angers, Université de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Melanie T Cushion
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
- Cincinnati VAMC, Medical Research Service, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - Enrique J Calderón
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocίo/Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientίficas/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiologίa y Salud Pública, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocίo, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Seville, Spain
| | - Philippe M Hauser
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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7
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Maldonado R, Längst G. The chromatin - triple helix connection. Biol Chem 2023; 404:1037-1049. [PMID: 37506218 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian genomes are extensively transcribed, producing a large number of coding and non-coding transcripts. A large fraction of the nuclear RNAs is physically associated with chromatin, functioning in gene activation and silencing, shaping higher-order genome organisation, such as involvement in long-range enhancer-promoter interactions, transcription hubs, heterochromatin, nuclear bodies and phase transitions. Different mechanisms allow the tethering of these chromatin-associated RNAs (caRNA) to chromosomes, including RNA binding proteins, the RNA polymerases and R-loops. In this review, we focus on the sequence-specific targeting of RNA to DNA by forming triple helical structures and describe its interplay with chromatin. It turns out that nucleosome positioning at triple helix target sites and the nucleosome itself are essential factors in determining the formation and stability of triple helices. The histone H3-tail plays a critical role in triple helix stabilisation, and the role of its epigenetic modifications in this process is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gernot Längst
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry (RCB), University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
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8
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Yildiz CB, Kundu T, Gehrmann J, Koesling J, Ravaei A, Wolff P, Kraft F, Maié T, Jakovcevski M, Pensold D, Zimmermann O, Rossetti G, Costa IG, Zimmer-Bensch G. EphrinA5 regulates cell motility by modulating Snhg15/DNA triplex-dependent targeting of DNMT1 to the Ncam1 promoter. Epigenetics Chromatin 2023; 16:42. [PMID: 37880732 PMCID: PMC10601256 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-023-00516-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell communication is mediated by membrane receptors and their ligands, such as the Eph/ephrin system, orchestrating cell migration during development and in diverse cancer types. Epigenetic mechanisms are key for integrating external "signals", e.g., from neighboring cells, into the transcriptome in health and disease. Previously, we reported ephrinA5 to trigger transcriptional changes of lncRNAs and protein-coding genes in cerebellar granule cells, a cell model for medulloblastoma. LncRNAs represent important adaptors for epigenetic writers through which they regulate gene expression. Here, we investigate a lncRNA-mediated targeting of DNMT1 to specific gene loci by the combined power of in silico modeling of RNA/DNA interactions and wet lab approaches, in the context of the clinically relevant use case of ephrinA5-dependent regulation of cellular motility of cerebellar granule cells. We provide evidence that Snhg15, a cancer-related lncRNA, recruits DNMT1 to the Ncam1 promoter through RNA/DNA triplex structure formation and the interaction with DNMT1. This mediates DNA methylation-dependent silencing of Ncam1, being abolished by ephrinA5 stimulation-triggered reduction of Snhg15 expression. Hence, we here propose a triple helix recognition mechanism, underlying cell motility regulation via lncRNA-targeted DNA methylation in a clinically relevant context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Bora Yildiz
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Research Training Group 2416 Multi Senses - Multi Scales, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tathagata Kundu
- Jülich Supercomputing Centre, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Julia Gehrmann
- Institute for Computational Genomics, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jannis Koesling
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Amin Ravaei
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Philip Wolff
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Florian Kraft
- Institute for Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Tiago Maié
- Institute for Computational Genomics, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mira Jakovcevski
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniel Pensold
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Olav Zimmermann
- Jülich Supercomputing Centre, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Giulia Rossetti
- Jülich Supercomputing Centre, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425, Jülich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-9)/Institute of Advanced Simulations (IAS-5), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Ivan G Costa
- Institute for Computational Genomics, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch
- Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), Division of Neuroepigenetics, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 3, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
- Research Training Group 2416 Multi Senses - Multi Scales, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
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9
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Ramakrishnaiah Y, Morris AP, Dhaliwal J, Philip M, Kuhlmann L, Tyagi S. Linc2function: A Comprehensive Pipeline and Webserver for Long Non-Coding RNA (lncRNA) Identification and Functional Predictions Using Deep Learning Approaches. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:22. [PMID: 37754274 PMCID: PMC10528440 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7030022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), comprising a significant portion of the human transcriptome, serve as vital regulators of cellular processes and potential disease biomarkers. However, the function of most lncRNAs remains unknown, and furthermore, existing approaches have focused on gene-level investigation. Our work emphasizes the importance of transcript-level annotation to uncover the roles of specific transcript isoforms. We propose that understanding the mechanisms of lncRNA in pathological processes requires solving their structural motifs and interactomes. A complete lncRNA annotation first involves discriminating them from their coding counterparts and then predicting their functional motifs and target bio-molecules. Current in silico methods mainly perform primary-sequence-based discrimination using a reference model, limiting their comprehensiveness and generalizability. We demonstrate that integrating secondary structure and interactome information, in addition to using transcript sequence, enables a comprehensive functional annotation. Annotating lncRNA for newly sequenced species is challenging due to inconsistencies in functional annotations, specialized computational techniques, limited accessibility to source code, and the shortcomings of reference-based methods for cross-species predictions. To address these challenges, we developed a pipeline for identifying and annotating transcript sequences at the isoform level. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the pipeline by comprehensively annotating the lncRNA associated with two specific disease groups. The source code of our pipeline is available under the MIT licensefor local use by researchers to make new predictions using the pre-trained models or to re-train models on new sequence datasets. Non-technical users can access the pipeline through a web server setup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashpal Ramakrishnaiah
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- School of Computing Technologies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Adam P. Morris
- Monash Data Futures Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jasbir Dhaliwal
- School of Computing Technologies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Melcy Philip
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Levin Kuhlmann
- Faculty of Information Technology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sonika Tyagi
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- School of Computing Technologies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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10
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Yuan F, Liu X, Li J, Tan L. Interactions of arene ruthenium(II) complexes [η 6-(C 6H 6)Ru(pprip)Cl] + and [η 6-(C 6H 6)Ru(H 2iiP)Cl] + with RNA triplex poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U). J Biol Inorg Chem 2023; 28:559-570. [PMID: 37477757 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-023-02008-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Two arene ruthenium(II) complexes [η6-(C6H6)Ru(pprip)Cl]PF6 (Ru1; pprip = 2-(3-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-imidazolo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline) and [η6-(C6H6)Ru(H2iiP)Cl]PF6 (Ru2; H2iiP = 2-(indole-3-yl)-imidazolo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline) have been synthesized and characterized in this work. Binding properties of Ru1 and Ru2 with the triplex RNA poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) were investigated by spectrophotometry and spectrofluorometry as well as viscosimetry. Analysis of spectroscopic titrations and viscosity measurements show that the two complexes bind with the triplex through intercalation, while the binding affinity for Ru2 toward the triplex is stronger than that for Ru1. Melting experiments indicate that the stabilizing effects of Ru1 and Ru2 toward the triplex differ from each other. Under the conditions used herein, Ru1 only stabilizes the Hoogsteen base-paired strand (third strand) without affecting stabilization of the Watson-Crick base-paired strand (the template duplex) of the triplex, while Ru2 stabilizes both the template duplex and the third strand. Although the two complexes prefer to stabilizing the third strand rather than the template duplex, the third-strand stabilization effect of Ru2 is stronger than that of Ru1. The obtained results of this work reveal that the planarity of the intercalative ligands plays an important role in the triplex stabilization by arene Ru(II) complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yuan
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Li
- Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Wen B, Liu X, Tan L. Binding and stabilizating effect of RNA triplex poly(U)⋅poly(A)*poly(U) by enantiomers of ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complex [Ru(bpy) 2(dppx)] 2. J Biol Inorg Chem 2023:10.1007/s00775-023-02004-2. [PMID: 37452869 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-023-02004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Two chiral ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes, Λ-[Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, dppx = 7,8-dimethyldipyridophenazine; Λ-1) and Δ-[Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ (Δ-1) have been synthesized and characterized in this work. Interactions of Λ-1 and Δ-1 with the RNA triplex poly(U)⋅poly(A)*poly(U) have been investigated by various biophysical techniques. Spectrophotometric titrations and viscosity measurements suggested that enantiomers Λ-1 and Δ-1 bind with the triplex through intercalation, while the binding strengths of the two enantiomers toward the triplex differed only slightly from each other. Fluorescence titrations showed that although enantiomers Λ-1 and Δ-1 exhibited molecular "light switch" effects toward the triplex, the effect of Δ-1 was more marked. Furthermore, Furthermore, thermal denaturation showed that the two enantiomers have significantly different stabilizing effects on the triplex. The obtained results indicate that the racemic complex [Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ is similar to a non-specific metallointercalator for the triplex investigated in this study, and chiralities of Ru(II) polypyridine complexes have an important influence on the binding and stabilizing effects of enantiomers toward the triplex. Two chiral ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes, Λ-[Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, dppx = 7,8-dimethyldipyridophenazine; Λ-1) and Δ-[Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ (Δ-1) have been synthesized and characterized in this work. Interactions of Λ-1 and Δ-1 with the RNA triplex poly(U)⋅poly(A)*poly(U) have been investigated by various biophysical techniques. The obtained results indicate that the racemic complex [Ru(bpy)2(dppx)]2+ is similar as a non-specific metallointercalator for the triplex investigated in this study, and chiralities of Ru(II) polypyridine complexes have an important influence on the binding and stabilizing effects of enantiomers toward the triplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxin Wen
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Assmann SM, Chou HL, Bevilacqua PC. Rock, scissors, paper: How RNA structure informs function. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:1671-1707. [PMID: 36747354 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
RNA can fold back on itself to adopt a wide range of structures. These range from relatively simple hairpins to intricate 3D folds and can be accompanied by regulatory interactions with both metabolites and macromolecules. The last 50 yr have witnessed elucidation of an astonishing array of RNA structures including transfer RNAs, ribozymes, riboswitches, the ribosome, the spliceosome, and most recently entire RNA structuromes. These advances in RNA structural biology have deepened insight into fundamental biological processes including gene editing, transcription, translation, and structure-based detection and response to temperature and other environmental signals. These discoveries reveal that RNA can be relatively static, like a rock; that it can have catalytic functions of cutting bonds, like scissors; and that it can adopt myriad functional shapes, like paper. We relate these extraordinary discoveries in the biology of RNA structure to the plant way of life. We trace plant-specific discovery of ribozymes and riboswitches, alternative splicing, organellar ribosomes, thermometers, whole-transcriptome structuromes and pan-structuromes, and conclude that plants have a special set of RNA structures that confer unique types of gene regulation. We finish with a consideration of future directions for the RNA structure-function field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Assmann
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Hong-Li Chou
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Philip C Bevilacqua
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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13
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Kohestani H, Wereszczynski J. The effects of RNA.DNA-DNA triple helices on nucleosome structures and dynamics. Biophys J 2023; 122:1229-1239. [PMID: 36798026 PMCID: PMC10111275 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are an emerging epigenetic factor and have been recognized as playing a key role in many gene expression pathways. Structurally, binding of ncRNAs to isolated DNA is strongly dependent on sequence complementary and results in the formation of an RNA.DNA-DNA (RDD) triple helix. However, in vivo DNA is not isolated but is rather packed in chromatin fibers, the fundamental unit of which is the nucleosome. Biochemical experiments have shown that ncRNA binding to nucleosomal DNA is elevated at DNA entry and exit sites and is dependent on the presence of the H3 N-terminal tails. However, the structural and dynamical bases for these mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we have examined the mechanisms and effects of RDD formation in the context of the nucleosome using a series of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. Results highlight the importance of DNA sequence on complex stability, elucidate the effects of the H3 tails on RDD structures, show how RDD formation impacts the structure and dynamics of the H3 tails, and show how RNA alters the local and global DNA double-helical structure. Together, our results suggest ncRNAs can modify nucleosome, and potentially higher-order chromatin, structures and dynamics as a means of exerting epigenetic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Havva Kohestani
- Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jeff Wereszczynski
- Departments of Physics & Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois.
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14
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Zhang J, Fakharzadeh A, Roland C, Sagui C. RNA as a Major-Groove Ligand: RNA-RNA and RNA-DNA Triplexes Formed by GAA and UUC or TTC Sequences. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:38728-38743. [PMID: 36340174 PMCID: PMC9631886 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c04358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia is associated with noncanonical nucleic acid structures that emerge when GAA:TTC repeats in the first intron of the FXN gene expand beyond a critical number of repeats. Specifically, the noncanonical repeats are associated with both triplexes and R-loops. Here, we present an in silico investigation of all possible triplexes that form by attaching a third RNA strand to an RNA:RNA or DNA:DNA duplex, complementing previous DNA-based triplex studies. For both new triplexes results are similar. For a pyridimine UUC+ third strand, the parallel orientation is stable while its antiparallel counterpart is unstable. For a neutral GAA third strand, the parallel conformation is stable. A protonated GA+A third strand is stable in both parallel and antiparallel orientations. We have also investigated Na+ and Mg2+ ion distributions around the triplexes. The presence of Mg2+ ions helps stabilize neutral, antiparallel GAA triplexes. These results (along with previous DNA-based studies) allow for the emergence of a complete picture of the stability and structural characteristics of triplexes based on the GAA and TTC/UUC sequences, thereby contributing to the field of trinucleotide repeats and the associated unusual structures that trigger expansion.
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15
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Zhang C, Liu X, Tan L. Interaction of arene ruthenium(II) complexes [(η 6-C 6H 6)Ru(L)Cl]PF 6 (L = o-fpip and p-fpip) with the RNA triplex poly(U)*poly(A)•poly(U). J Inorg Biochem 2022; 232:111813. [PMID: 35405487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2022.111813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To comprehend the binding properties of η6-arene Ru(II) complexes with poly(U)*poly(A)•poly(U) triplex, two arene Ru(II) complexes with different fluorine substituent positions, [(η6-C6H6)Ru(o-fpip)Cl]PF6 (Ru1,η6-C6H6 = benzene ring, o-fpip = 2-(2'‑fluorine) imidazo [4,5-f] Biver et al. (2008), Gupta et al. (2012) [1, 10] phenanthroline) and [(η6-C6H6)Ru(p-fpip)Cl]PF6 (Ru2,η6-C6H6 = benzene ring, o-fpip = 2-(4'‑fluorine) imidazo [4,5-f] Biver et al. (2008), Gupta et al. (2012) [1, 10] phenanthroline), have been synthesized and characterized in this study. The binding of Ru1 and Ru2 with poly(U)*poly(A)•poly(U) triplex has been investigated by viscosity measurement and spectroscopic methods. Analysis of UV-Vis absorption spectral titrations suggests that Ru1 and Ru2 bind to the triplex through an intercalative mode, but the binding affinity of Ru2 is slightly higher than that of Ru1, which is also verified by viscosity and EB (ethidium bromide) competition measurements. Furthermore, the thermal denaturation experiment shows that Ru1 and Ru2 increase the third-strand stabilization to a similar extent. Interestingly, the two complexes have essentially no effect on the stabilization of the template duplex. Considering the structure of Ru1 and Ru2, conceivably besides the intercalation of ligand, the force stabilizing the triplex should also involve covalent binding and electrostatic interaction. The obtained results will contribute to our understanding of the interaction of arene Ru(II) complexes with the poly(U)*poly(A)•poly(U) triplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengqing Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Pal T, Chauhan K, Kumar S. Role of Hoogsteen interaction in the stability of different phases of triplex DNA. Phys Rev E 2022; 105:044407. [PMID: 35590612 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.105.044407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A simple coarse-grained model of DNA which includes both Watson-Crick and Hoogsteen base pairing has been used to study the melting and unzipping of triplex DNA. Using Langevin dynamics simulations, we reproduce the qualitative features of one-step and two-step thermal melting of triplex as seen in experiments. The thermal melting phase diagram shows the existence of a stable interchain three-strand complex (bubble-bound state). Our studies based on the mechanical unzipping of a triplex revealed that it is mechanically more stable compared to an isolated duplex-DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmoy Pal
- Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | | | - Sanjay Kumar
- Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
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17
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Abstract
Most of the transcribed human genome codes for noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) make for the lion's share of the human ncRNA space. Despite growing interest in lncRNAs, because there are so many of them, and because of their tissue specialization and, often, lower abundance, their catalog remains incomplete and there are multiple ongoing efforts to improve it. Consequently, the number of human lncRNA genes may be lower than 10,000 or higher than 200,000. A key open challenge for lncRNA research, now that so many lncRNA species have been identified, is the characterization of lncRNA function and the interpretation of the roles of genetic and epigenetic alterations at their loci. After all, the most important human genes to catalog and study are those that contribute to important cellular functions-that affect development or cell differentiation and whose dysregulation may play a role in the genesis and progression of human diseases. Multiple efforts have used screens based on RNA-mediated interference (RNAi), antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), and CRISPR screens to identify the consequences of lncRNA dysregulation and predict lncRNA function in select contexts, but these approaches have unresolved scalability and accuracy challenges. Instead-as was the case for better-studied ncRNAs in the past-researchers often focus on characterizing lncRNA interactions and investigating their effects on genes and pathways with known functions. Here, we focus most of our review on computational methods to identify lncRNA interactions and to predict the effects of their alterations and dysregulation on human disease pathways.
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18
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Khan S, Singh A, Nain N, Gulati S, Kukreti S. Sequence-specific recognition of a coding segment of human DACH1 gene via short pyrimidine/purine oligonucleotides. RSC Adv 2021; 11:40011-40021. [PMID: 35494143 PMCID: PMC9044637 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra06604h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
With growing in vivo evidence of the roles of triplexes in biological processes, oligonucleotide-directed targeting of double-helical DNA for selective modulation of gene functions has become imperative in their therapeutic aspects. This study comprises a comparative investigation of 17-mer Py- and Pu-TFO for the formation of an intermolecular triplex with a 27-bp genomic homopurine–homopyrimidine track present in the transcriptional element of the human DACH1 gene. The biochemical and biophysical studies have revealed that triplex formation takes place only with Py-TFO and not with its Pu-counterpart. Non-denaturating gel electrophoresis indicated the formation of an intermolecular triplex in Py-motif with an increasing amount of Py-TFO, whereas no such interaction was observed for the Pu-counterpart. UV-thermal melting (Tm), circular dichroism (CD) and thermal difference spectra (TDS) studies confirmed the pyrimidine motif triplex formation, which was observed to be significantly pH-dependent and stable at acidic pH (5.2) in the presence of 100 mM Na+ ions. Contrarily, Pu-TFO was not found to bind to the target predominantly, owing to its self-association properties. Further studies have revealed that the GA-rich Pu-TFO adopts a homoduplex structure leading to a limit in its availability for triplex formation. These results may add to our understanding of sequence-specific gene targeting and give insight into designing more specific TFOs depending on genomic targets. Schematic representation of the proposed model of intermolecular triplex and homoduplex of used DNA sequences.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoaib Khan
- Nucleic Acid Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi Delhi-110007 India
| | - Anju Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Ramjas College, University of Delhi Delhi-110007 India
| | - Nishu Nain
- Nucleic Acid Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi Delhi-110007 India
| | - Srishty Gulati
- Nucleic Acid Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi Delhi-110007 India
| | - Shrikant Kukreti
- Nucleic Acid Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi Delhi-110007 India
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19
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Three-dimensional genome organization via triplex-forming RNAs. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2021; 28:945-954. [PMID: 34759378 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00678-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
An increasing number of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proposed to act as nuclear organization factors during interphase. Direct RNA-DNA interactions can be achieved by the formation of triplex helix structures where a single-stranded RNA molecule hybridizes by complementarity into the major groove of double-stranded DNA. However, whether and how these direct RNA-DNA associations influence genome structure in interphase chromosomes remain poorly understood. Here we theorize that RNA organizes the genome in space via a triplex-forming mechanism. To test this theory, we apply a computational modeling approach of chromosomes that combines restraint-based modeling with polymer physics. Our models suggest that colocalization of triplex hotspots targeted by lncRNAs could contribute to large-scale chromosome compartmentalization cooperating, rather than competing, with architectural transcription factors such as CTCF.
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20
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Substituent effects on the interactions of ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes [Ru(bpy)2(6-R-dppz)]2+ (R = hydroxy and fluorine) with the RNA triplex poly(rU)·poly(rA) × poly(rU). Polyhedron 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.poly.2021.115196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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21
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Fantoni NZ, Brown T, Kellett A. DNA-Targeted Metallodrugs: An Untapped Source of Artificial Gene Editing Technology. Chembiochem 2021; 22:2184-2205. [PMID: 33570813 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
DNA binding metal complexes are synonymous with anticancer drug discovery. Given the array of structural and chemical reactivity properties available through careful design, metal complexes have been directed to bind nucleic acid structures through covalent or noncovalent binding modes. Several recognition modes - including crosslinking, intercalation, and oxidation - are central to the clinical success of broad-spectrum anticancer metallodrugs. However, recent progress in nucleic acid click chemistry coupled with advancement in our understanding of metal complex-nucleic acid interactions has opened up new avenues in genetic engineering and targeted therapies. Several of these applications are enabled by the hybridisation of oligonucleotide or polyamine probes to discrete metal complexes, which facilitate site-specific reactivity at the nucleic acid interface under the guidance of the probe. This Review focuses on recent advancements in hybrid design and, by way of an introduction to this topic, we provide a detailed overview of nucleic acid structures and metal complex-nucleic acid interactions. Our aim is to provide readers with an insight on the rational design of metal complexes with DNA recognition properties and an understanding of how the sequence-specific targeting of these interactions can be achieved for gene engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Zuin Fantoni
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Brown
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Kellett
- School of Chemical Sciences and National Institute for, Cellular Biotechnology and Nano Research Facility, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin, 9, Ireland
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22
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Pabis K. Triplex and other DNA motifs show motif-specific associations with mitochondrial DNA deletions and species lifespan. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 194:111429. [PMID: 33422563 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The "theory of resistant biomolecules" posits that long-lived species show resistance to molecular damage at the level of their biomolecules. Here, we test this hypothesis in the context of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) as it implies that predicted mutagenic DNA motifs should be inversely correlated with species maximum lifespan (MLS). First, we confirmed that guanine-quadruplex and direct repeat (DR) motifs are mutagenic, as they associate with mtDNA deletions in the human major arc of mtDNA, while also adding mirror repeat (MR) and intramolecular triplex motifs to a growing list of potentially mutagenic features. What is more, triplex motifs showed disease-specific associations with deletions and an apparent interaction with guanine-quadruplex motifs. Surprisingly, even though DR, MR and guanine-quadruplex motifs were associated with mtDNA deletions, their correlation with MLS was explained by the biased base composition of mtDNA. Only triplex motifs negatively correlated with MLS even after adjusting for body mass, phylogeny, mtDNA base composition and effective number of codons. Taken together, our work highlights the importance of base composition for the comparative biogerontology of mtDNA and suggests that future research on mitochondrial triplex motifs is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Pabis
- Georg August University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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23
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McKenzie LK, El-Khoury R, Thorpe JD, Damha MJ, Hollenstein M. Recent progress in non-native nucleic acid modifications. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:5126-5164. [DOI: 10.1039/d0cs01430c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
While Nature harnesses RNA and DNA to store, read and write genetic information, the inherent programmability, synthetic accessibility and wide functionality of these nucleic acids make them attractive tools for use in a vast array of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke K. McKenzie
- Institut Pasteur
- Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry
- Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids
- CNRS UMR3523
- 75724 Paris Cedex 15
| | | | | | | | - Marcel Hollenstein
- Institut Pasteur
- Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry
- Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids
- CNRS UMR3523
- 75724 Paris Cedex 15
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24
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Jalali S, Singh A, Scaria V, Maiti S. Genome-Wide Computational Analysis and Validation of Potential Long Noncoding RNA-Mediated DNA-DNA-RNA Triplexes in the Human Genome. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2254:61-71. [PMID: 33326070 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1158-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs are well studied for their regulatory actions through interaction with DNA regulating biological roles of DNA, RNA, or protein. However, direct binding of lncRNA with DNA is rarely demonstrated in experiments. The present protocol explains genome wide computational strategies to choose lncRNAs that can bind directly to the chromatin by forming highly stable DNA-DNA-RNA triplexes. The chapter also focuses on biophysical methods that can be used to validate the computationally derived lncRNA-gene targets in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saakshi Jalali
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India.,Reliance Technology Group, Reliance Industries Limited, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Amrita Singh
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India
| | - Vinod Scaria
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India. .,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR IGIB South Campus, Delhi, India.
| | - Souvik Maiti
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India. .,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR IGIB South Campus, Delhi, India.
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25
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Shibata T, Iwasaki W, Hirota K. The intrinsic ability of double-stranded DNA to carry out D-loop and R-loop formation. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:3350-3360. [PMID: 33294131 PMCID: PMC7677664 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Double-stranded (ds)DNA, not dsRNA, has an ability to form a homologous complex with single-stranded (ss)DNA or ssRNA of homologous sequence. D-loops and homologous triplexes are homologous complexes formed with ssDNA by RecA/Rad51-family homologous-pairing proteins, and are a key intermediate of homologous (genetic/DNA) recombination. R-loop formation independent of transcription (R-loop formation in trans) was recently found to play roles in gene regulation and development of mammals and plants. In addition, the crRNA-Cas effector complex in CRISPR-Cas systems also relies on R-loop formation to recognize specific target. In homologous complex formation, ssDNA/ssRNA finds a homologous sequence in dsDNA by Watson-Crick base-pairing. crRNA-Cas effector complexes appear to actively melt dsDNA to make its bases available for annealing to crRNA. On the other hand, in D-loop formation and homologous-triplex formation, it is likely that dsDNA recognizes the homologous sequence before the melting of its double helix by using its intrinsic molecular function depending on CH2 at the 2'-position of the deoxyribose, and that the major role of RecA is the extension of ssDNA and the holding dsDNA at a position suitable for homology search. This intrinsic dsDNA function would also play a role in R-loop formation. The dependency of homologous-complex formation on 2'-CH2 of the deoxyribose would explain the absence of homologous complex formation by dsRNA, and dsDNA as sole genome molecule in all cellular organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiko Shibata
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wakana Iwasaki
- Laboratory for Translation Structural Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kouji Hirota
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Comparative studies on the binding interaction of two chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes with triple- and double-helical forms of RNA. J Inorg Biochem 2020; 214:111301. [PMID: 33166867 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2020.111301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Two chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes, Δ-[Ru(bpy)2(6-F-dppz)]2+ (Δ-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 6-F-dppz = 6-fluorodipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine) and Λ-[Ru(bpy)2(6-F-dppz)]2+ (Λ-1), have been synthesized and characterized as binders for the RNA poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) triplex and poly(A)•poly(U) duplex in this work. Analysis of the UV-Vis absorption spectra and fluorescence emission spectra indicates that the binding of intercalating Δ-1 with the triplex and duplex RNA is greater than that of Λ-1, while the binding affinities of the two enantiomers to triplex structure is stronger than that of duplex structure. Fluorescence titrations show that the two enantiomers can act as molecular "light switches" for triple- and double-helical RNA. Thermal denaturation studies revealed that that the two enantiomers are more stable to Watson-Crick base-paired double strand of the triplex than the Hoogsteen base-paired third strand, but their stability and selectivity are different. For Δ-enantiomer, the increase of the thermal stability of the Watson-Crick base-paired duplex (13 °C) is slightly stronger than of the Hoogsteen base-paired strand (10 °C), displaying no obvious selectivity. However, compared to the Hoogsteen base-paired strand (5 °C), the stability of the Λ-enantiomer to the Watson-Crick base-paired duplex (13 °C) is more significant, which has obvious selectivity. The overall increase in viscosity of the RNA-(Λ-1) system and its curve shape are similar to that of the RNA-(Δ-1) system, suggesting that the binding modes of two enantiomers with RNA are intercalation. The obtained results in this work may be useful for understanding the binding differences in chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes toward RNA triplex and duplex.
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Towards a comprehensive pipeline to identify and functionally annotate long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). Comput Biol Med 2020; 127:104028. [PMID: 33126123 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2020.104028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in various genetic diseases and cancer, attributed to their critical role in gene regulation. They are a divergent group of RNAs and are easily differentiated from other types with unique characteristics, functions, and mechanisms of action. In this review, we provide a list of some of the prominent data repositories containing lncRNAs, their interactome, and predicted and validated disease associations. Next, we discuss various wet-lab experiments formulated to obtain the data for these repositories. We also provide a critical review of in silico methods available for the identification purpose and suggest techniques to further improve their performance. The bulk of the methods currently focus on distinguishing lncRNA transcripts from the coding ones. Functional annotation of these transcripts still remains a grey area and more efforts are needed in that space. Finally, we provide details of current progress, discuss impediments, and illustrate a roadmap for developing a generalized computational pipeline for comprehensive annotation of lncRNAs, which is essential to accelerate research in this area.
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Dong Z, Liu X, Tan L. Biophysical insights into the interaction of two enantiomers of Ru(II) complex [Ru(bpy) 2(7-CH 3-dppz)] 2+ with the RNA poly(U-A⁎U) triplex. J Biol Inorg Chem 2020; 25:1085-1095. [PMID: 33040210 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-020-01825-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
To determine the factors affecting the stabilization of RNA triple-stranded structure by chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes, a new pair of enantiomers, ∆-[Ru(bpy)2(7-CH3-dppz)]2+ (∆-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-CH3-dppz = 7-methyl-dipyrido[3,2-a,2',3'-c]phenazine) and Λ-[Ru(bpy)2(7-CH3-dppz)]2+ (Λ-1), have been synthesized and characterized in this work. Binding properties of the two enantiomers with the RNA poly(U-A⁎U) triplex (where "-" denotes the Watson - Crick base pairing and "⁎" denotes the Hoogsteen base pairing) have been studied by spectroscopy and hydrodynamics methods. Under the conditions used in this study, changes in absorption spectra of the two enantiomers are not very different from each other when bound to the triplex, although the binding affinity of ∆-1 is higher than that of Λ-1. Fluorescence titrations and viscosity experiments give convincing evidence for a true intercalative binding of enantiomers with the triplex. However, melting experiments indicated that the two enantiomers selectively stabilized the triplex. The enantiomer ∆-1 stabilize the template duplex and third-strand of the triplex, while it's more effective for stabilization of the template duplex. In stark contrast to ∆-1, Λ-1 stabilizes the triplex without any effect on the third-strand stabilization, suggesting this one extremely prefers to stabilize the template duplex rather than third-strand. Besides, the triplex stabilization effect of ∆-1 is more marked in comparison with that of Λ-1. The obtained results suggest that substituent effects and chiralities of Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes play important roles in the triplex stabilization. Complexes Λ/Δ-[Ru(bpy)2(7-CH3-dppz)]2+ (Λ/Δ-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-CH3-dppz = 7-methyl-dipyrido[3,2-a,2',3'-c]phenazine) were prepared as stabilizers for poly(U-A ∗ U) triplex. Results suggest the triplex stabilization depends the chiral structures of Λ/Δ-1, indicating that [Ru(bpy)2(7-CH3-dppz)]2+ is a non-specific intercalator for poly(U-A ∗ U) investigated in this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan Dong
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory for Green Organic Synthesis and Application of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
Vibrational spectroscopy, in particular infrared spectroscopy, has been widely used to probe the three-dimensional structures and conformational dynamics of nucleic acids. As commonly used chromophores, the C=O and C=C stretch modes in the nucleobases exhibit distinct spectral features for different base pairing and stacking configurations. To elucidate the origin of their structural sensitivity, in this work, we develop transition charge coupling (TCC) models that allow one to efficiently calculate the interactions or couplings between the C=O and C=C chromophores based on the geometric arrangements of the nucleobases. To evaluate their performances, we apply the TCC models to DNA and RNA oligonucleotides with a variety of secondary and tertiary structures and demonstrate that the predicted couplings are in quantitative agreement with the reference values. We further elucidate how the interactions between the paired and stacked bases give rise to characteristic IR absorption peaks and show that the TCC models provide more reliable predictions of the coupling constants as compared to the transition dipole coupling scheme. The TCC models, together with our recently developed through-bond coupling constants and vibrational frequency maps, provide an effective theoretical strategy to model the vibrational Hamiltonian, and hence the vibrational spectra of nucleic acids in the base carbonyl stretch region directly from atomistic molecular simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyukun Jiang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, Rutgers University, 174 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, Rutgers University, 174 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
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Tan L, Zhang J. A phenolic hydroxyl in the ortho- and meta-positions on the main ligands effect on the interactions of [Ru(phen) 2(o-HPIP)] 2+ and [Ru(phen) 2(m-HPIP)] 2+ with the poly(U)·poly(A)*poly(U) triplex. J Inorg Biochem 2020; 213:111268. [PMID: 33065523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2020.111268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The association of two ruthenium(II) complexes [Ru(phen)2(o-HPIP)]2+ (Ru1; phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, o-HPIP = 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10] phenanthroline) and [Ru(phen)2(m-HPIP)]2+ (Ru2; m-HPIP = 2-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenan- throline) with the RNA poly(U)·poly(A)⁎poly(U) triplex has been investigated by spectrophotometric titrations and melting experiments in this work. All experimental data reveal an intercalative triplex-binding mode of the two complexes, whereas the binding constant for Ru1 is significantly higher than that for Ru2. Circular dichroism spectroscopic investigations show that the two complexes could bind to the chiral environment of the triplex, but the triplex perturbation effects induced by Ru1 are more marked. Thermal denaturation experiments demonstrate that both Ru1 and Ru2 display a large binding preference and stabilizing effect for the third strand over the Watson-Crick base-paired duplex of the triplex. However, the third-strand stabilizing effect of Ru1 is much more effective than that of Ru2. The obtained results suggest that positions of the phenolic group on the main ligands have significant effect on the binding of the two complexes with poly(U)·poly(A)⁎poly(U) triplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifeng Tan
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China; Key Lab of Environment-friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
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Jiang L, Liu X, Tan L. Synthesis and characterization of chiral Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes and their binding and stabilizing effects toward triple-helical RNA. J Inorg Biochem 2020; 213:111263. [PMID: 33011626 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2020.111263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Two novel chiral Ru(II) complexes, Λ- and Δ-[Ru(bpy)2(7-CF3-dppz)]2+ (Λ-1 and Δ-1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-CF3-dppz = 7-trifluoromethyl-dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine), were synthesized and characterized in this work. The binding and stabilizing effects of Λ-1 and Δ-1 toward the RNA poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) triplex were studied by various biophysical techniques. Absorption spectra and fluorescence quenching indicates that the binding affinity of Δ-1 is slightly higher than that Λ-1. Both enantiomers induce significant positive viscosity changes that are indicative of intercalative binding, whereas changes in the relative viscosities of the triplex are found to be more pronounced with Δ-1. Melting experiments indicate that the triplex stabilization effects of both enantiomers are significantly different from each other. With Λ-1, the stabilization of the Watson-Crick base-paired duplex (the template duplex) of the triplex shows a moderate increase, whereas the stabilization of the Hoogsteen base-paired strand (third-strand) exhibits slight decrease under the same conditions, suggesting Λ-1 prefers to stabilize the template duplex rather than third-strand. In stark contrast to Λ-1, Δ-1 can not only strongly stabilize the template duplex, but also moderately increase the third-strand stabilization, even so, which imply that Δ-1 also prefer to stabilize the template duplex instead of the third-strand. These suggest that the [Ru(bpy)2(7-CF3-dppz)]2+ is similar as a non-specific metallointercalator the triplex studied in this work. Combined with our recent research, the obtained results further indicate that Δ- enantiomers rather than Λ-ones of Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes usually exhibit stronger binding and stabilizing effects toward the triplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Jiang
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Green Organic Synthesis and Application of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China.
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Culver HR, Sinha J, Prieto TR, Calo CJ, Fairbanks BD, Bowman CN. Click Nucleic Acid–DNA Binding Behavior: Dependence on Length, Sequence, and Ionic Strength. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:4205-4211. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Heidi R. Culver
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Jasmine Sinha
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Tania R. Prieto
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Christopher J. Calo
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Benjamin D. Fairbanks
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Christopher N. Bowman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
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Stabilization of an intermolecular RNA triplex by two novel binders Lys- and Arg-rich Ru(II) polypyridyl metallopeptides. J Inorg Biochem 2020; 210:111171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2020.111171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Brown JA. Unraveling the structure and biological functions of RNA triple helices. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2020; 11:e1598. [PMID: 32441456 PMCID: PMC7583470 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It has been nearly 63 years since the first characterization of an RNA triple helix in vitro by Gary Felsenfeld, David Davies, and Alexander Rich. An RNA triple helix consists of three strands: A Watson–Crick RNA double helix whose major‐groove establishes hydrogen bonds with the so‐called “third strand”. In the past 15 years, it has been recognized that these major‐groove RNA triple helices, like single‐stranded and double‐stranded RNA, also mediate prominent biological roles inside cells. Thus far, these triple helices are known to mediate catalysis during telomere synthesis and RNA splicing, bind to ligands and ions so that metabolite‐sensing riboswitches can regulate gene expression, and provide a clever strategy to protect the 3′ end of RNA from degradation. Because RNA triple helices play important roles in biology, there is a renewed interest in better understanding the fundamental properties of RNA triple helices and developing methods for their high‐throughput discovery. This review provides an overview of the fundamental biochemical and structural properties of major‐groove RNA triple helices, summarizes the structure and function of naturally occurring RNA triple helices, and describes prospective strategies to isolate RNA triple helices as a means to establish the “triplexome”. This article is categorized under:RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure and Dynamics RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics and Chemistry RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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35
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Kazimierczyk M, Kasprowicz MK, Kasprzyk ME, Wrzesinski J. Human Long Noncoding RNA Interactome: Detection, Characterization and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1027. [PMID: 32033158 PMCID: PMC7037361 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of a new generation of sequencing techniques has revealed that most of the genome has already been transcribed. However, only a small part of the genome codes proteins. The rest of the genome "dark matter" belongs to divergent groups of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), that is not translated into proteins. There are two groups of ncRNAs, which include small and long non-coding RNAs (sncRNA and lncRNA respectively). Over the last decade, there has been an increased interest in lncRNAs and their interaction with cellular components. In this review, we presented the newest information about the human lncRNA interactome. The term lncRNA interactome refers to cellular biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, proteins, and peptides that interact with lncRNA. The lncRNA interactome was characterized in the last decade, however, understanding what role the biomolecules associated with lncRNA play and the nature of these interactions will allow us to better understand lncRNA's biological functions in the cell. We also describe a set of methods currently used for the detection of lncRNA interactome components and the analysis of their interactions. We think that such a holistic and integrated analysis of the lncRNA interactome will help to better understand its potential role in the development of organisms and cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Wrzesinski
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland (M.K.K.); (M.E.K.)
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36
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Franklin A, Steele EJ, Lindley RA. A proposed reverse transcription mechanism for (CAG)n and similar expandable repeats that cause neurological and other diseases. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03258. [PMID: 32140575 PMCID: PMC7044655 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of (CAG)n repeat generation, and related expandable repeat diseases in non-dividing cells, is currently understood in terms of a DNA template-based DNA repair synthesis process involving hairpin stabilized slippage, local error-prone repair via MutSβ (MSH2-MSH3) hairpin protective stabilization, then nascent strand extension by DNA polymerases-β and -δ. We advance a very similar slipped hairpin-stabilized model involving MSH2-MSH3 with two key differences: the copying template may also be the nascent pre-mRNA with the repair pathway being mediated by the Y-family error-prone enzymes DNA polymerase-η and DNA polymerase-κ acting as reverse transcriptases. We argue that both DNA-based and RNA-based mechanisms could well be activated in affected non-dividing brain cells in vivo. Here, we compare the advantages of the RNA/RT-based model proposed by us as an adjunct to previously proposed models. In brief, our model depends upon dysregulated innate and adaptive immunity cascades involving AID/APOBEC and ADAR deaminases that are known to be involved in normal locus-specific immunoglobulin somatic hypermutation, cancer progression and somatic mutations at many off-target non-immunoglobulin sites across the genome: we explain how these processes could also play an active role in repeat expansion diseases at RNA polymerase II-transcribed genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Franklin
- Medical Department, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited, 200 Frimley Business Park, Frimley, Surrey, GU16 7SR, United Kingdom
| | - Edward J. Steele
- Melville Analytics Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Vic, 3004, Australia
- CYO’Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Robyn A. Lindley
- GMDxgenomics, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Vic, Australia
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Abstract
Graphene liquid-cell electron microscopy reveals intermediate states of self-assembly—in this example, DNA when single strands form double helices. Molecules are observed for up to minutes at a time without apparent beam damage when electron energy and electron dose are low. Simultaneous in situ single-molecule imaging of conformational adaptations and motion gives more comprehensive understanding of self-assembly successes, failures, and error-producing mechanisms, confirming some earlier predictions and also presenting surprises. Loop intermediates were observed to facilitate error correction. Hybridization events accompany enhanced translational mobility and mechanistically specific persistent rotation. The information obtained goes beyond that from other single-molecule methods. Traditional single-molecule methods do not report whole-molecule kinetic conformations, and their adaptive shape changes during the process of self-assembly. Here, using graphene liquid-cell electron microscopy with electrons of low energy at low dose, we show that this approach resolves the time dependence of conformational adaptations of macromolecules for times up to minutes, the resolution determined by motion blurring, with DNA as the test case. Single-stranded DNA molecules are observed in real time as they hybridize near the solid surface to form double-stranded helices; we contrast molecules the same length but differing in base-pair microstructure (random, blocky, and palindromic hairpin) whose key difference is that random sequences possess only one stable final state, but the others offer metastable intermediate structures. Hybridization is observed to couple with enhanced translational mobility and torsion-induced rotation of the molecule. Prevalent transient loops are observed in error-correction processes. Transient melting and other failed encounters are observed in the competitive binding of multiple single-stranded molecules. Among the intermediate states reported here, some were predicted but not observed previously, and the high incidence of looping and enhanced mobility come as surprises. The error-producing mechanisms, failed encounters, and transient intermediate states would not be easily resolved by traditional single-molecule methods. The methods generalize to visualize motions and interactions of other organic macromolecules.
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Bhunia S, Kumar A, Ojha AK. Tuning of structural and magnetic properties by intriguing radical-radical interaction by double electron oxidation in U-A-U′ triplex formation. Chem Phys 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphys.2019.110527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Jastrzębska K, Mikołajczyk B, Guga P. LNA units present in [ RP-PS]-(DNA#LNA) chimeras enhance the thermal stability of parallel duplexes and triplexes formed with (2′-OMe)-RNA strands. RSC Adv 2020; 10:22370-22376. [PMID: 35514591 PMCID: PMC9054617 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra03934a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The results of CD measurements indicate that 2-4 LNA units distributed along 12 nt P-stereodefined phosphorothioate [RP-PS]-(DNA#LNA) chimeras impose a C3′-endo conformation on the 2′-deoxyribonucleosides. Under neutral and slightly acidic conditions homopurine [Rp-PS]-(DNA#LNA) hybridizes with 9–12 nt Hoogsteen-paired (2′-OMe)-RNA strands to form parallel duplexes, which are thermally more stable than the reported earlier analogous complexes containing LNA-free [RP-PS]-DNA oligomers (ΔTm = 7 °C per LNA unit at pH 5.4). Upon addition of the corresponding Watson–Crick-paired (2′-OMe)-RNA strands, parallel triplexes are formed with further increased thermal stability. 3′-O-(2-Thio-1,3,2-oxathiaphospholane) derivatives of 5′-O-DMT-LNA-nucleosides were used to prepare P-stereodefined (RP-PS)-DNA#LNA chimeras, which form thermally stable parallel complexes with (2′-OMe)-RNA matrices.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Jastrzębska
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry
- Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies
- Polish Academy of Sciences
- 90-363 Łódź
- Poland
| | - Barbara Mikołajczyk
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry
- Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies
- Polish Academy of Sciences
- 90-363 Łódź
- Poland
| | - Piotr Guga
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry
- Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies
- Polish Academy of Sciences
- 90-363 Łódź
- Poland
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Functional Prediction of Candidate MicroRNAs for CRC Management Using in Silico Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205190. [PMID: 31635135 PMCID: PMC6834124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30–50% of malignant growths can be prevented by avoiding risk factors and implementing evidence-based strategies. Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounted for the second most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer death worldwide. This cancer subtype can be reduced by early detection and patients’ management. In this study, the functional roles of the identified microRNAs were determined using an in silico pipeline. Five microRNAs identified using an in silico approach alongside their seven target genes from our previous study were used as datasets in this study. Furthermore, the secondary structure and the thermodynamic energies of the microRNAs were revealed by Mfold algorithm. The triplex binding ability of the oligonucleotide with the target promoters were analyzed by Trident. Finally, evolutionary stage-specific somatic events and co-expression analysis of the target genes in CRC were analyzed by SEECancer and GeneMANIA plugin in Cytoscape. Four of the five microRNAs have the potential to form more than one secondary structure. The ranges of the observed/expected ratio of CpG dinucleotides of these genes range from 0.60 to 1.22. Three of the candidate microRNA were capable of forming multiple triplexes along with three of the target mRNAs. Four of the total targets were involved in either early or metastatic stage-specific events while three other genes were either a product of antecedent or subsequent events of the four genes implicated in CRC. The secondary structure of the candidate microRNAs can be used to explain the different degrees of genetic regulation in CRC due to their conformational role to modulate target interaction. Furthermore, due to the regulation of important genes in the CRC pathway and the enrichment of the microRNA with triplex binding sites, they may be a useful diagnostic biomarker for the disease subtype.
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Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. If unifying principles could be revealed for how the same genome encodes different eukaryotic cells and for how genetic variability and environmental input are integrated to impact cardiovascular health, grand challenges in basic cell biology and translational medicine may succumb to experimental dissection. A rich body of work in model systems has implicated chromatin-modifying enzymes, DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, and other transcriptome-shaping factors in adult health and in the development, progression, and mitigation of cardiovascular disease. Meanwhile, deployment of epigenomic tools, powered by next-generation sequencing technologies in cardiovascular models and human populations, has enabled description of epigenomic landscapes underpinning cellular function in the cardiovascular system. This essay aims to unpack the conceptual framework in which epigenomes are studied and to stimulate discussion on how principles of chromatin function may inform investigations of cardiovascular disease and the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rosa-Garrido
- From the Departments of Anesthesiology, Medicine, and Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Douglas J Chapski
- From the Departments of Anesthesiology, Medicine, and Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Thomas M Vondriska
- From the Departments of Anesthesiology, Medicine, and Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles.
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Del Mundo IMA, Vasquez KM, Wang G. Modulation of DNA structure formation using small molecules. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:118539. [PMID: 31491448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2019.118539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genome integrity is essential for proper cell function such that genetic instability can result in cellular dysfunction and disease. Mutations in the human genome are not random, and occur more frequently at "hotspot" regions that often co-localize with sequences that have the capacity to adopt alternative (i.e. non-B) DNA structures. Non-B DNA-forming sequences are mutagenic, can stimulate the formation of DNA double-strand breaks, and are highly enriched at mutation hotspots in human cancer genomes. Thus, small molecules that can modulate the conformations of these structure-forming sequences may prove beneficial in the prevention and/or treatment of genetic diseases. Further, the development of molecular probes to interrogate the roles of non-B DNA structures in modulating DNA function, such as genetic instability in cancer etiology are warranted. Here, we discuss reported non-B DNA stabilizers, destabilizers, and probes, recent assays to identify ligands, and the potential biological applications of these DNA structure-modulating molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imee M A Del Mundo
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, 1400 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Karen M Vasquez
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, 1400 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Austin, TX 78723, USA.
| | - Guliang Wang
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, 1400 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Austin, TX 78723, USA
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Steele EJ, Gorczynski RM, Lindley RA, Liu Y, Temple R, Tokoro G, Wickramasinghe DT, Wickramasinghe NC. Lamarck and Panspermia - On the Efficient Spread of Living Systems Throughout the Cosmos. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 149:10-32. [PMID: 31445944 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2019.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We review the main lines of evidence (molecular, cellular and whole organism) published since the 1970s demonstrating Lamarckian Inheritance in animals, plants and microorganisms viz. the transgenerational inheritance of environmentally-induced acquired characteristics. The studies in animals demonstrate the genetic permeability of the soma-germline Weismann Barrier. The widespread nature of environmentally-directed inheritance phenomena reviewed here contradicts a key pillar of neo-Darwinism which affirms the rigidity of the Weismann Barrier. These developments suggest that neo-Darwinian evolutionary theory is in need of significant revision. We argue that Lamarckian inheritance strategies involving environmentally-induced rapid directional genetic adaptations make biological sense in the context of cosmic Panspermia allowing the efficient spread of living systems and genetic innovation throughout the Universe. The Hoyle-Wickramasinghe Panspermia paradigm also developed since the 1970s, unlike strictly geocentric neo-Darwinism provides a cogent biological rationale for the actual widespread existence of Lamarckian modes of inheritance - it provides its raison d'être. Under a terrestrially confined neo-Darwinian viewpoint such an association may have been thought spurious in the past. Our aim is to outline the conceptual links between rapid Lamarckian-based evolutionary hypermutation processes dependent on reverse transcription-coupled mechanisms among others and the effective cosmic spread of living systems. For example, a viable, or cryo-preserved, living system travelling through space in a protective matrix will need of necessity to rapidly adapt and proliferate on landing in a new cosmic niche. Lamarckian mechanisms thus come to the fore and supersede the slow (blind and random) genetic processes expected under a traditional neo-Darwinian evolutionary paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- C.Y.O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, Perth, 6112, WA, Australia; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Melville Analytics Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.
| | | | - Robyn A Lindley
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of MelbourneVic, Australia; GMDx Group Ltd, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Robert Temple
- The History of Chinese Science and Culture Foundation, Conway Hall, London, UK
| | - Gensuke Tokoro
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan
| | - Dayal T Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - N Chandra Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan; Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
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Carter CW, Wills PR. Hierarchical groove discrimination by Class I and II aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases reveals a palimpsest of the operational RNA code in the tRNA acceptor-stem bases. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:9667-9683. [PMID: 30016476 PMCID: PMC6182185 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Class I and II aaRS recognition of opposite grooves was likely among the earliest determinants fixed in the tRNA acceptor stem bases. A new regression model identifies those determinants in bacterial tRNAs. Integral coefficients relate digital dependent to independent variables with perfect agreement between observed and calculated grooves for all twenty isoaccepting tRNAs. Recognition is mediated by the Discriminator base 73, the first base pair, and base 2 of the acceptor stem. Subsets of these coefficients also identically compute grooves recognized by smaller numbers of aaRS. Thus, the model is hierarchical, suggesting that new rules were added to pre-existing ones as new amino acids joined the coding alphabet. A thermodynamic rationale for the simplest model implies that Class-dependent aaRS secondary structures exploited differential tendencies of the acceptor stem to form the hairpin observed in Class I aaRS•tRNA complexes, enabling the earliest groove discrimination. Curiously, groove recognition also depends explicitly on the identity of base 2 in a manner consistent with the middle bases of the codon table, confirming a hidden ancestry of codon-anticodon pairing in the acceptor stem. That, and the lack of correlation with anticodon bases support prior productive coding interaction of tRNA minihelices with proto-mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles W Carter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7260, USA
| | - Peter R Wills
- Department of Physics, Centre for Computational Evolution, and Te Ao Marama Centre for Fundamental Enquiry, University of Auckland, PB 92109, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Matsuno Y, Yamashita T, Wagatsuma M, Yamakage H. Convergence in LINE-1 nucleotide variations can benefit redundantly forming triplexes with lncRNA in mammalian X-chromosome inactivation. Mob DNA 2019; 10:33. [PMID: 31384315 PMCID: PMC6664574 DOI: 10.1186/s13100-019-0173-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Associations between X-inactive transcript (Xist)–long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and chromatin are critical intermolecular interactions in the X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) process. Despite high-resolution analyses of the Xist RNA-binding sites, specific interaction sequences are yet to be identified. Based on elusive features of the association between Xist RNA and chromatin and the possible existence of multiple low-affinity binding sites in Xist RNA, we defined short motifs (≥5 nucleotides), termed as redundant UC/TC (r-UC/TC) or AG (r-AG) motifs, which may help in the mediation of triplex formation between the lncRNAs and duplex DNA. Results The study showed that r-UC motifs are densely dispersed throughout mouse and human Xist/XIST RNAs, whereas r-AG motifs are even more densely dispersed along opossum RNA-on-the-silent X (Rsx) RNA, and also along both full-length and truncated long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE-1s, L1s) of the three species. Predicted secondary structures of the lncRNAs showed that the length range of these sequence motifs available for forming triplexes was even shorter, mainly 5- to 9-nucleotides long. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) measurements and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations indicated that minimum-length motifs can reinforce the binding state by increasing the copy number of the motifs in the same RNA or DNA molecule. Further, r-AG motifs in L1s had a similar length-distribution pattern, regardless of the similarities in the length or sequence of L1s across the three species; this also applies to high-frequency mutations in r-AG motifs, which suggests convergence in L1 sequence variations. Conclusions Multiple short motifs in both RNA and duplex DNA molecules could be brought together to form triplexes with either Hoogsteen or reverse Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding, by which their associations are cooperatively enhanced. This novel triplex interaction could be involved in associations between lncRNA and chromatin in XCI, particularly at the sites of L1s. Potential binding of Xist/XIST/Rsx RNAs specifically at L1s is most likely preserved through the r-AG motifs conserved in mammalian L1s through convergence in L1 nucleotide variations and by maintaining a particular r-UC/r-AG motif ratio in each of these lncRNAs, irrespective of their poorly conserved sequences. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13100-019-0173-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Matsuno
- 1Division of Clinical Preventive Medicine, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takefumi Yamashita
- 2Laboratory for Systems Biology and Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Ong AAL, Toh DFK, Krishna MS, Patil KM, Okamura K, Chen G. Incorporating 2-Thiouracil into Short Double-Stranded RNA-Binding Peptide Nucleic Acids for Enhanced Recognition of A-U Pairs and for Targeting a MicroRNA Hairpin Precursor. Biochemistry 2019; 58:3444-3453. [PMID: 31318532 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.9b00521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chemically modified short peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) recognize RNA duplexes under near physiological conditions by major-groove PNA·RNA-RNA triplex formation and show great promise for the development of RNA-targeting probes and therapeutics. Thymine (T) and uracil (U) are often incorporated into PNAs to recognize A-U pairs through major-groove T·A-U and U·A-U base triple formation. Incorporation of a modified nucleobase, 2-thiouracil (s2U), into triplex-forming oligonucleotides stabilizes both DNA and RNA triplexes. Thiolation of uracil causes a decrease in the dehydration energy penalty for triplex formation as well as a decrease in the pKa of the N3 atom, which may result in improved hydrogen bonding in addition to enhanced base stacking interactions, similar to the previously reported thiolation effect of pseudoisocytosine (J to L substitution). Here, we incorporated s2U into short PNAs, followed by binding studies of a series of s2U-modified PNAs. We demonstrated by nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and thermal melting experiments that s2U and L incorporated into dsRNA-binding PNAs (dbPNAs) enhance the recognition of A-U and G-C pairs, respectively, in RNA duplexes in a position-independent manner, with no appreciable binding to the DNA duplex. Combining s2U and L modifications in dbPNAs facilitates enhanced recognition of dsRNAs and maintains selective binding to dsRNAs over ssRNAs. We further demonstrated through a cell-free assay the application of the s2U- and L-modified dbPNAs (8-mer, with a molecular mass of ∼2.3 kDa) in the inhibition of the pre-microRNA-198 maturation in a substrate-specific manner. Thus, s2U-modified dbPNAs may be generally useful for the enhanced and selective recognition of RNA duplexes and for the regulation of RNA functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Ann Lerk Ong
- NTU Institute for Health Technologies (HeathTech NTU), Interdisciplinary Graduate School , Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Drive , Singapore 637553.,Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Desiree-Faye Kaixin Toh
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Manchugondanahalli S Krishna
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Kiran M Patil
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Katsutomo Okamura
- Division of Biological Sciences , Nara Institute of Science and Technology , 8916-5 Takayama , Ikoma , Nara 630-0192 , Japan
| | - Gang Chen
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
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Tan Z, Zhu J, Ni W, Liu X, Li Y, Tan L. Binding properties of two ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes [Ru(bpy) 2(dppz-Br)] 2+ and [Ru(dmb) 2(dppz-Br)] 2+ with the RNA poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) triplex. J Biol Inorg Chem 2019; 24:721-731. [PMID: 31312912 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-019-01685-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Two ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes containing different ancillary ligands, [Ru(bpy)2(dppz-Br)]2+ (Ru1; bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine dppz-Br = 7-Br-dipyrido[3,2-a,2',3'-c]-phenazine) and [Ru(dmb)2(dppz-Br)]2+ (Ru2; dmb = 4,4'-dimethyl-2,2'-bipyridine), have been synthesized and characterized. Binding properties of Ru1 and Ru2 with the RNA poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) triplex have been investigated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, viscosity measurements as well as circular dichroism and thermal denaturation. Spectrophotometric studies together with viscosity measurements suggest that both Ru1 and Ru2 bind with the triplex by intercalation mode, and the melting experiments demonstrate that the two complexes can effectively enhance the triplex stabilization. However, results indicate that Ru1 stabilizes the third-strand and Watson-Crick base-paired duplex of the triplex without obvious selectivity. In contrast, Ru2 prefers to bind with the third strand rather than the Watson-Crick base-paired duplex of the triplex to a some extent under the same conditions used in this study, thereby significantly stabilizing the third strand. The obtained results of this study suggest that slight differences in the ancillary ligands bpy and dmb should be the main factor affecting the binding interactions of the two complexes with the triplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zanru Tan
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Zhu
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Ni
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical Organic Chemistry and Function Molecule, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory for Green Organic Synthesis and Application of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, People's Republic of China.
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48
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Genome Organization in and around the Nucleolus. Cells 2019; 8:cells8060579. [PMID: 31212844 PMCID: PMC6628108 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleolus is the largest substructure in the nucleus, where ribosome biogenesis takes place, and forms around the nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) that comprise ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Each cell contains hundreds of rRNA genes, which are organized in three distinct chromatin and transcriptional states—silent, inactive and active. Increasing evidence indicates that the role of the nucleolus and rRNA genes goes beyond the control of ribosome biogenesis. Recent results highlighted the nucleolus as a compartment for the location and regulation of repressive genomic domains and, together with the nuclear lamina, represents the hub for the organization of the inactive heterochromatin. In this review, we aim to describe the crosstalk between the nucleolus and the rest of the genome and how distinct rRNA gene chromatin states affect nucleolus structure and are implicated in genome stability, genome architecture, and cell fate decision.
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Wang F, Sun Y, Liu X, Li Y, Tan L. Third-strand stabilizing effects of the RNA poly(U)·poly(A)*poly(U) triplex by a ruthenium(II) polypyridine complex and its hexaarginine peptide conjugate. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 135:1134-1141. [PMID: 31176864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In this work, a Ru(II) complex [Ru(bpy)2(pip-CO2H)]2+ (Ru1) and its hexaarginine peptide conjugate [Ru(bpy)2(pic-Arg6)]8+ (Ru2) have been synthesized and characterized. The binding of Ru1 and Ru2 with poly(U)•poly(A)*poly(U) triplex has been studied. Results suggest that Ru1 binds in the surface of the minor groove while Ru2 binds to the minor groove of the triplex. Consequently, the triplex stabilization is barely affected by Ru1, while with Ru2 the triplex stabilizing effect is so strong that that dissociation of the triplex shows an overlapping of both melting processes with the melting temperature increased to a maximum of 56.1 °C at the CRu2/CUAU ratio of 0.05, where ΔTm1 and ΔTm2 are 19.6 and 10.1 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the effect of Ru2 stabilizing the third strand at such a low binding ratio of 0.05 is more marked than what obsereved for flavone luteolin and [Ru(bpy)2(mdpz)]2+, which are so far the strongest triplex stabilizers in the reported organic small molecules and metal complexes, respectively. Considering the structure natures of Ru2, conceivably except for electrostatic interaction, the forces stabilizing the triplex should also involve hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bingding. To our knowledge, this work represents a first example of improving the triplex stabilization by a metallopeptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wang
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, PR China
| | - Yanmei Sun
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Academic Affairs Office, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, PR China
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical Organic Chemistry and Function Molecule, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, PR China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, PR China; Key Laboratory for Green Organic Synthesis and Application of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, PR China.
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50
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Wang F, Ma S, Feng Y, Liu X, Tan L. Binding propterties of two Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes containing dppz units and fluorine groups with poly(U)·poly(A) ∗ poly(U) triplex. J Inorg Biochem 2019; 197:110705. [PMID: 31071642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2019.110705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In this work, two Ru(II)-dppz (dppz = dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine) complexes containing fluorine substituents, [Ru(bpy)2(7-F-dppz)]2+ (Ru1, bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, 7-F-dppz = 7-fluorodipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine) and [Ru(phen)2(7-F-dppz)]2+ (Ru2, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), have been synthesized and characterized. Binding properties of Ru1 and Ru2 with the RNA poly(U)·poly(A) ∗ poly(U) triplex have been studied by spectroscopic methods and viscosity measurements. The obtained results indicate that the binding differences of the two complexes with the triplex may be attributed to the ancillary ligand effects, implying that the better planarity and greater hydrophobicity of ancillary ligands are advantageous to the π-π stacking interaction between Ru2 and the triplex, thus Ru2 stabilizes the triplex strongly than Ru1. Denaturation of the triplex shows that both Ru1 and Ru2 can not only highly stabilize the template duplex of the triplex, but also significantly stabilize the third strand. Compared with the triplex stabilizing effects for the reported Ru(II)-dppz complexes, thermal melting experiments suggest that the fluorine substituent on the ligand dppz can probably decrease electrostatic repulsion between the three strands of the triplex, thereby Ru1 and Ru2 significantly increase the triplex stabilization. Results obtained from this work further confirm that the substituent electron effect of dppz-based ligands and the planarity and hydrophobicity of ancillary ligands play an important role in the triplex stabilizing effects by Ru(II)-dppz complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wang
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Ma
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongdeng Feng
- College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tan
- Key Lab of Environment-friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Green Organic Synthesis and Application of Hunan Province, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, People's Republic of China.
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