Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 24, 2025

Sequence-specific and Selective Recognition of Double-stranded RNAs over Single-stranded RNAs by Chemically Modified Peptide Nucleic Acids
Published on: September 21, 2017
Tetrahedral Framework Nucleic Acids Deliver Antimicrobial Peptides with Improved Effects and Less Susceptibility to
Yuhao Liu1, Yue Sun1, Songhang Li1
1State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Abstract:
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been an attractive alternative to traditional antibiotics. However, considerable efforts are needed to further enhance their antimicrobial effects and stability against bacterial degradation. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs), a new class of three-dimensional nanostructures, have been utilized as a delivery vehicle. In this study, tFNAs were combined for the first time with an antimicrobial peptide GL13K, and the effects of the resultant complexes against Escherichia coli (sensitive to GL13K) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (capable of degrading GL13K) were investigated. tFNA-based delivery enhanced the effects of GL13K against E. coli. The tFNA vehicle both increased bacterial uptake and promoted membrane destabilization. Moreover, it enhanced the effects of GL13K against P. gingivalis by protecting the peptide against degradation in the protease-rich extracellular environment. Therefore, tFNA provides a delivery vehicle for AMPs targeting a broad range of disease.
Related Concept Videos
Antimicrobial Proteins
Interferons
Interferons (IFNs) are proteins produced by lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts infected with viruses. While IFNs cannot prevent viruses from entering and...
Types of RNA
Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in the regulation of gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA...
Nucleic Acid Structure
DNA Structure
DNA...
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Combined Effects of Drugs: Synergism
Such synergistic combinations...
Antimicrobial Effectiveness

