Hydrophobic vs coulombic interactions in the binding of steroidal polyamines to DNA

Seven new steroidal polyamines derived from bile acids, either lithocholic or deoxycholic acid, have been studied as DNA-binding agents using four complimentary methods: an ethidium displacement assay, observed changes in the thermal denaturation of poly[d(AT)], effects on hyperchromicity of DNA, and circular dichroism. In addition, modelling studies were conducted to examine the electrostatic surface potential of the polycations. The results point to a key role for a large hydrophobic surface area on the steroid in addition to the Coulombic attraction by ammonium and guanidinium groups on the steroid interacting with the polyphosphate backbone.