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Updated: Aug 12, 2025

Single-Molecule Fluorescence Visualization of DNA Polymerase Dynamics at G-Quadruplexes
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Single-Molecule Fluorescence Visualization of DNA Polymerase Dynamics at G-Quadruplexes

Published on: April 4, 2025

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Unlocking G-Quadruplexes as Targets and Tools against COVID-19

Geng Qin1,2, Chuanqi Zhao1,2, Jie Yang1,2

  • 1Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Science Changchun, Jilin 130022 China.

Chinese Journal of Chemistry
|January 30, 2023
PubMed

Insights

G-quadruplexes (G4s) show promise as COVID-19 treatments and diagnostics. Research is rapidly advancing on G4 ligands targeting SARS-CoV-2, highlighting their potential and limitations for future antiviral strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Virology
  • Medicinal Chemistry

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic spurred research into novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.
  • G-quadruplexes (G4s) are emerging as potential targets due to their unique structural properties.
  • The scientific community is actively investigating G4s for their role in combating SARS-CoV-2.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in utilizing G-quadruplexes (G4s) against COVID-19.
  • To explore the application of G4s as antiviral targets, therapeutic agents, and diagnostic tools.
  • To summarize the use of G4 ligands in anti-SARS-CoV-2 research.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on G-quadruplexes and COVID-19.
  • Analysis of studies focusing on G4 ligands targeting SARS-CoV-2.
  • Synthesis of findings on G4s as therapeutic and diagnostic modalities.

Main Results:

  • G-quadruplexes (G4s) are being actively evaluated for their potential in COVID-19 management.
  • G4 ligands demonstrate promise as antiviral agents and diagnostic tools against SARS-CoV-2.
  • Accumulating research highlights the expanding role of G4s in the anti-SARS-CoV-2 field.

Conclusions:

  • G-quadruplexes (G4s) and their ligands represent a significant area of investigation for COVID-19.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the strengths and weaknesses of G4s in combating SARS-CoV-2.
  • G4-based strategies offer a promising avenue for future antiviral therapies and diagnostics.
Keywords:
AptamersDrug discoveryG‐quadruplexesNucleic acidsViruses

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