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Updated: Jun 28, 2026
08:28
Single-molecule Manipulation of G-quadruplexes by Magnetic Tweezers
Published on: September 19, 2017
Stabilisation of G-quadruplex DNA by small molecules
1Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
|November 11, 2008
Summary
Guanine-rich DNA can form quadruplex structures. Ligands stabilizing these structures show promise as anticancer drugs by inhibiting telomerase or regulating oncogene transcription.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Guanine-rich DNA sequences can fold into stable quadruplex structures.
- Quadruplex DNA formation in telomeres inhibits telomerase, an enzyme often overexpressed in cancer.
- Quadruplex structures in oncogene promoter regions may regulate gene transcription.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss small molecule ligands developed as quadruplex DNA stabilizers.
- To highlight the potential of these ligands as anticancer therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on quadruplex DNA ligands.
- Classification of ligands based on compound type.
- Coverage of scientific literature from 2004 to 2007.
Main Results:
- Various classes of small molecules have been developed to selectively bind and stabilize quadruplex DNA structures.
- These ligands have demonstrated potential in modulating biological processes relevant to cancer therapy.
Conclusions:
- Quadruplex DNA is a promising target for anticancer drug development.
- Small molecule ligands that stabilize quadruplex DNA represent a significant area of research for novel cancer therapeutics.
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