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Updated: Sep 29, 2025
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Single-molecule Manipulation of G-quadruplexes by Magnetic Tweezers
Published on: September 19, 2017
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Major Achievements in the Design of Quadruplex-Interactive Small Molecules
Eduarda Mendes1, Israa M Aljnadi1,2, Bárbara Bahls1,2
1Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 26, 2022
Summary
Small molecules targeting G-quadruplex and i-Motif structures show promise as selective drugs and diagnostic tools. Research highlights their therapeutic potential, binding modes, and challenges for drug discovery.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Organic small molecules can interact with G-quadruplex and i-Motif nucleic acid structures.
- These interactions have potential applications in selective drug development and medical diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey achievements in therapeutic applications of quadruplex-ligand small molecules.
- To analyze their binding modes and effects on nucleic acid structures.
- To discuss opportunities and challenges in drug discovery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of reported quadruplex-interactive small molecules.
- Analysis of binding mechanisms and biological effects.
- Discussion of drug discovery prospects.
Main Results:
- Numerous small molecules targeting G-quadruplexes and i-Motifs have been developed.
- These molecules exhibit diverse binding modes and biological effects.
- Significant therapeutic potential exists, alongside design challenges.
Conclusions:
- Small molecule ligands for G-quadruplex and i-Motif structures are valuable for drug discovery and diagnostics.
- Further research is needed to overcome design challenges and fully exploit their therapeutic potential.
