Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based DNA framework assembled split G-quadruplex nanodevices for microRNA...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• MicroRNA (miRNA) detection is crucial for understanding cellular processes and disease.
• Existing miRNA imaging techniques face challenges in sensitivity and specificity within living cells.
• G-quadruplex (G4) structures offer unique properties for molecular recognition and signal transduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel DNA nanodevice for sensitive and specific microRNA imaging in living cells.
• To leverage the structural versatility of split G-quadruplexes for signal generation.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) for G4-based nanodevice activation.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a DNA framework-assembled split G-quadruplex nanodevice.
• Hybridization of the nanodevice with target microRNAs in living HeLa cells.
• Monitoring structural transformations of G4 segments upon target binding.
• Utilizing fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) for signal detection.

Main Results:

• The split G4 nanodevice successfully detected and imaged microRNAs in living HeLa cells.
• Hybridization with target microRNAs induced structural changes in the G4 segments.
• These structural changes initiated FRET, enabling signal generation for imaging.
• The nanodevice demonstrated potential for sensitive and specific microRNA visualization.

Conclusions:

• A novel DNA framework assembled split G4 nanodevice was successfully fabricated for microRNA imaging.
• The nanodevice design enables target-induced structural changes and FRET activation.
• This approach offers a promising new strategy for intracellular microRNA detection and imaging.
• The G4 motif holds significant potential for future nanodevice applications in molecular diagnostics.