K⁺-Specification with Flavone P0 Probe in a G-Quadruplex DNA

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Chemical Biology

Background:

• G-quadruplex (G4) DNA structures are crucial therapeutic targets with significant biological roles.
• Developing specific fluorescent probes is essential for understanding G4 DNA function.
• Existing probes often struggle with precise recognition and can perturb G4 folding dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a versatile and specific fluorescent probe for G-quadruplex DNA.
• To create a selective sensor for potassium ion (K+) detection using a G4/probe system.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of flavone P0 as a fluorescent probe.
• Spectroscopic analysis (fluorescence enhancement) to assess G4 DNA specificity against various nucleic acid structures.
• Development of a dimeric G4/P0 system for K+ ion sensing and evaluation of its selectivity and anti-interference properties.

Main Results:

• Flavone P0 exhibits an 85-fold fluorescence enhancement with G4 DNA, significantly higher than with non-G4 DNA (8-fold).
• The dimeric G4/P0 system functions as a highly selective K+ sensor, showing a 513-fold fluorescence enhancement.
• The K+ sensor demonstrates a wide detection range (0-500 mM) and excellent anti-interference against other metal ions, including Na+.

Conclusions:

• Flavone P0 is an effective fluorescent probe for specific G-quadruplex DNA monitoring.
• The developed dimeric G4/P0 system offers a sensitive and selective method for K+ ion detection.
• Flavone P0 holds promise for bioanalytical and medicinal applications in G4 DNA research.