A thermal-activated peroxidase DNAzyme via G-quadruplex nanowires

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Catalysis

Background:

• G-quadruplex (GQ)/hemin DNAzymes are potent artificial peroxidases for redox reactions.
• Limited thermal stability of GQ/hemin systems hinders high-temperature biocatalysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a thermally activated peroxidase-mimetic DNAzyme.
• To enhance the application of DNAzymes in high-temperature industrial processes.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a G-quadruplex nanowire (GQwire) and hemin complex.
• Evaluation of catalytic activity in the oxidation of 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylben zothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) by H2O2 at varying temperatures.
• Structural analysis of the GQwire architecture's thermal transition.

Main Results:

• The DNAzyme demonstrated a remarkable temperature-enhanced activity, with a 4.7-fold increase in catalytic activity at 70 °C compared to 25 °C.
• Cumulative product yield increased 3.6-fold at 70 °C.
• Structural analysis revealed disassembly of GQwire into oligomeric GQ rods, exposing more hemin binding sites.

Conclusions:

• The developed thermal-activated DNAzyme overcomes the thermal stability limitations of traditional GQ/hemin systems.
• The unique thermal activation mechanism expands the potential of DNAzymes in industrial biocatalysis.
• This strategy offers a novel approach for fabricating robust biocatalysts for high-temperature applications.