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Updated: Jul 1, 2026

DNA-Tethered RNA Polymerase for Programmable In vitro Transcription and Molecular Computation
Published on: December 29, 2021
Development of template-directed reversible DNA photocrosslinking
Yoshinaga Yoshimura1, Genki Ozaki, Kenzo Fujimoto
1School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi, Ishikawa, Japan.
Researchers developed a new method for reversible DNA interstrand photocrosslinking using an artificial nucleoside (X). This DNA crosslinking and splitting process is rapid and light-induced, offering new possibilities in molecular biology.
Area of Science:
- Synthetic biology
- Photochemistry
- Molecular biology
Background:
- DNA interstrand crosslinks are important for DNA repair and gene regulation.
- Existing photocrosslinking methods often lack reversibility or require harsh conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel, reversible DNA interstrand photocrosslinking reaction.
- To characterize the efficiency and conditions for photocrosslinking and splitting.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of an artificial nucleoside (X).
- Incorporation of nucleoside X into oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs).
- Photocrosslinking of ODNs at 366 nm and subsequent splitting at 312 nm.
Main Results:
- Successful photocrosslinking of ODNs containing nucleoside X upon 1-second irradiation at 366 nm.
- Efficient splitting of photocrosslinked ODNs upon 60-second irradiation at 312 nm.
- Demonstration of the reversible nature of the DNA interstrand photocrosslinking reaction.
Conclusions:
- The artificial nucleoside X enables a rapid and reversible DNA interstrand photocrosslinking reaction.
- This method provides a new tool for manipulating DNA structures with light.
- Potential applications in DNA nanotechnology, drug delivery, and synthetic gene circuits.
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