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Revealing G4 Structures as Drug Targets: Exploring the Potential of Novel Therapeutic Agents

Ying Che1,2, Yi Peng1,2, Xiaolong Pan1,2

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, Liaoning, P. R. China.

Research (Washington, D.C.)
|July 22, 2026
PubMed

Insights

G-quadruplex (G4) structures in DNA and RNA are linked to cancer progression. Targeting these G4s with novel molecules offers promising strategies for cancer diagnosis and therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • G-quadruplex (G4) structures are noncanonical DNA and RNA secondary structures.
  • G4s are frequently found in cancer genomes and correlate with malignancy and prognosis.
  • G4s show potential as cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review G4-targeting molecules for cancer treatment.
  • To analyze chemical characteristics, structure-activity relationships, and anticancer effects of G4 ligands.
  • To summarize novel nucleic acid-based drugs targeting G4 structures.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of G4 structures and targeting agents in cancer.
  • Analysis of chemical properties and structure-activity relationships of G4 ligands.
  • Summary of anticancer mechanisms and clinical relevance of G4-targeted therapies.

Main Results:

  • G4s are implicated in cancer malignancy, metastasis, and prognosis.
  • Compounds targeting G4s demonstrate potential as anticancer agents.
  • Novel nucleic acid-based drugs targeting G4s are emerging.

Conclusions:

  • G4 structures are significant in cancer biology and represent viable therapeutic targets.
  • G4-targeting molecules offer new avenues for cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.
  • Further development of specific G4-targeted agents is crucial for effective cancer therapy.

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