1
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Farag M, Mouawad L. Comprehensive analysis of intramolecular G-quadruplex structures: furthering the understanding of their formalism. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3522-3546. [PMID: 38512075 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4) are helical structures found in guanine-rich DNA or RNA sequences. Generally, their formalism is based on a few dozen structures, which can produce some inconsistencies or incompleteness. Using the website ASC-G4, we analyzed the structures of 333 intramolecular G4s, of all types, which allowed us to clarify some key concepts and present new information. To each of the eight distinguishable topologies corresponds a groove-width signature and a predominant glycosidic configuration (gc) pattern governed by the directions of the strands. The relative orientations of the stacking guanines within the strands, which we quantified and related to their vertical gc successions, determine the twist and tilt of the helices. The latter impact the minimum groove widths, which represent the space available for lateral ligand binding. The G4 four helices have similar twists, even when these twists are irregular, meaning that they have various angles along the strands. Despite its importance, the vertical gc succession has no strict one-to-one relationship with the topology, which explains the discrepancy between some topologies and their corresponding circular dichroism spectra. This study allowed us to introduce the new concept of platypus G4s, which are structures with properties corresponding to several topologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Farag
- Chemistry and Modeling for the Biology of Cancer, CNRS UMR9187, INSERM U1196, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, CS 90030, 91401 ORSAYCedex, France
| | - Liliane Mouawad
- Chemistry and Modeling for the Biology of Cancer, CNRS UMR9187, INSERM U1196, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, CS 90030, 91401 ORSAYCedex, France
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2
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Liang HT, Yan JY, Yao HJ, Zhang XN, Xing ZM, Liu L, Chen YQ, Li GR, Huang J, He YD, Zheng KW. G-quadruplexes on chromosomal DNA negatively regulates topoisomerase 1 activity. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:2142-2156. [PMID: 38340342 PMCID: PMC10954455 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human DNA topoisomerase 1 (Top1) is a crucial enzyme responsible for alleviating torsional stress on DNA during transcription and replication, thereby maintaining genome stability. Previous researches had found that non-working Top1 interacted extensively with chromosomal DNA in human cells. However, the reason for its retention on chromosomal DNA remained unclear. In this study, we discovered a close association between Top1 and chromosomal DNA, specifically linked to the presence of G-quadruplex (G4) structures. G4 structures, formed during transcription, trap Top1 and hinder its ability to relax neighboring DNAs. Disruption of the Top1-G4 interaction using G4 ligand relieved the inhibitory effect of G4 on Top1 activity, resulting in a further reduction of R-loop levels in cells. Additionally, the activation of Top1 through the use of a G4 ligand enhanced the toxicity of Top1 inhibitors towards cancer cells. Our study uncovers a negative regulation mechanism of human Top1 and highlights a novel pathway for activating Top1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-ting Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jiang-yu Yan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Hao-jun Yao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Xue-nan Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Zhi-ming Xing
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Lin Liu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yao-qing Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Guo-rui Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Jing Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Yi-de He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Ke-wei Zheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
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3
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Papp C, Jenjaroenpun P, Mukundan VT, Phan AT, Kuznetsov VA. Dataset of bulged G-quadruplex forming sequences in the human genome. Data Brief 2023; 50:109550. [PMID: 37743888 PMCID: PMC10515301 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
When several continuous guanine runs are present closely in a nucleic acid sequence, a secondary structure called G-quadruplex can form (G4s). Such structures in the genome could serve as structural and functional regulators in gene expression, DNA-protein binding, epigenetic modification, and genotoxic stress. Several types of G4-forming DNA sequences exist, including bulged G4-forming sequences (G4-BS). Such bulges occur due to the presence of non-guanine bases in specific locations (G-runs) in the G4-forming sequences. At present, search algorithms do not identify stable G4-BS conformations, making genome-wide studies of G4-like structures difficult. Data provided in this study are related to a published article "Stable bulged G-quadruplexes in the human genome: Identification, experimental validation and functionalization" published by Nucleic Acids Research [DIO.org/10.193/nar/gkad252]. Based on our studies in vitro and G4-seq and G4 CUT&Tag data analysis, we have specified and validated three pG4-BS models. In this article, a large collection of 'raw' (unfiltered) dataset is presented, which includes three subfamilies of pG4-BS. For each of pG4-BS, we provide strand-specific genomic boundaries. Data on pG4-BS might be useful in elucidating their structural, functional, and evolutionary roles. Furthermore, they may provide insight into the pathobiology of G4-like structures and their potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Papp
- Department of Urology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Piroon Jenjaroenpun
- Division of Bioinformatics and Data Management for Research, Research Group and Research Network Division, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR Biomedical Institutes, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vineeth T. Mukundan
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Anh Tuân Phan
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Vladimir A. Kuznetsov
- Department of Urology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR Biomedical Institutes, Singapore, Singapore
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4
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Fang J, Zheng L, Liu Y, Peng Y, Yang Q, Huang Y, Zhang J, Luo L, Shen D, Tan Y, Lu X, Feng G. Smart G-quadruplex hydrogels: From preparations to comprehensive applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 247:125614. [PMID: 37414320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the accelerated development of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels has driven the development of intelligent biomaterials. Based on the excellent biocompatibility and special biological functions of G-quadruplexes, and the hydrophilicity, high-water retention, high water content, flexibility and excellent biodegradability of hydrogels, G-quadruplex hydrogels are widely used in various fields by combining the dual advantages of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels. Here, we provide a systematic and comprehensive classification of G-quadruplex hydrogels in terms of preparation strategies and applications. This paper reveals how G-quadruplex hydrogels skillfully utilize the special biological functions of G-quadruplexes and the skeleton structure of hydrogels, and expounds its applications in the fields of biomedicine, biocatalysis, biosensing and biomaterials. In addition, we deeply analyze the challenges in preparation, applications, stability and safety of G-quadruplex hydrogels, as well as potential future development directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Fang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lijuan Zheng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yan Liu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuxin Peng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Qinghui Yang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuewen Huang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lixin Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Dunkai Shen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuyan Tan
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Xuefen Lu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Guangfu Feng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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5
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Papp C, Mukundan VT, Jenjaroenpun P, Winnerdy FR, Ow GS, Phan AT, Kuznetsov VA. Stable bulged G-quadruplexes in the human genome: identification, experimental validation and functionalization. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:4148-4177. [PMID: 37094040 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA sequence composition determines the topology and stability of G-quadruplexes (G4s). Bulged G-quadruplex structures (G4-Bs) are a subset of G4s characterized by 3D conformations with bulges. Current search algorithms fail to capture stable G4-B, making their genome-wide study infeasible. Here, we introduced a large family of computationally defined and experimentally verified potential G4-B forming sequences (pG4-BS). We found 478 263 pG4-BS regions that do not overlap 'canonical' G4-forming sequences in the human genome and are preferentially localized in transcription regulatory regions including R-loops and open chromatin. Over 90% of protein-coding genes contain pG4-BS in their promoter or gene body. We observed generally higher pG4-BS content in R-loops and their flanks, longer genes that are associated with brain tissue, immune and developmental processes. Also, the presence of pG4-BS on both template and non-template strands in promoters is associated with oncogenesis, cardiovascular disease and stemness. Our G4-BS models predicted G4-forming ability in vitro with 91.5% accuracy. Analysis of G4-seq and CUT&Tag data strongly supports the existence of G4-BS conformations genome-wide. We reconstructed a novel G4-B 3D structure located in the E2F8 promoter. This study defines a large family of G4-like sequences, offering new insights into the essential biological functions and potential future therapeutic uses of G4-B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Papp
- Department of Urology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Vineeth T Mukundan
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Piroon Jenjaroenpun
- Division of Bioinformatics and Data Management for Research, Research Group and Research Network Division, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR Biomedical Institutes, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fernaldo Richtia Winnerdy
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Ghim Siong Ow
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR Biomedical Institutes, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anh Tuân Phan
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Vladimir A Kuznetsov
- Department of Urology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR Biomedical Institutes, Singapore, Singapore
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6
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Farag M, Messaoudi C, Mouawad L. ASC-G4, an algorithm to calculate advanced structural characteristics of G-quadruplexes. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:2087-2107. [PMID: 36794725 PMCID: PMC10018348 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
ASC-G4 is an algorithm for the calculation of the advanced structural characteristics of G-quadruplexes (G4). It allows the unambiguous determination of the intramolecular G4 topology, based on the oriented strand numbering. It also resolves the ambiguity in the determination of the guanine glycosidic configuration. With this algorithm, we showed that the use of the C3' or C5' atoms to calculate the groove width in G4 is more appropriate than the P atoms and that the groove width does not always reflect the space available within the groove. For the latter, the minimum groove width is more appropriate. The application of ASC-G4 to 207 G4 structures guided the choices made for the calculations. A website based on ASC-G4 (http://tiny.cc/ASC-G4) was created, where the user uploads his G4 structure and gets its topology, the types of its loops and their lengths, the presence of snapbacks and bulges, the distribution of guanines in the tetrads and strands, the glycosidic configuration of these guanines, their rise, the groove widths, the minimum groove widths, the tilt and twist angles, the backbone dihedral angles, etc. It also provides a large number of atom-atom and atom-plane distances that are relevant to evaluating the quality of the structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Farag
- Chemistry and Modeling for the Biology of Cancer, CNRS UMR9187, INSERM U1196, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, CS 90030, 91401 Orsay Cedex, France
| | - Cédric Messaoudi
- Multimodal Imaging Center, CNRS UMS2016, INSERM US43, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Université Paris-Saclay, CS 90030, 91401 Orsay Cedex, France
| | - Liliane Mouawad
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +33 1 69 86 71 51;
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7
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Monsen RC, Chua ED, Hopkins J, Chaires J, Trent J. Structure of a 28.5 kDa duplex-embedded G-quadruplex system resolved to 7.4 Å resolution with cryo-EM. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:1943-1959. [PMID: 36715343 PMCID: PMC9976903 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic regions with high guanine content can fold into non-B form DNA four-stranded structures known as G-quadruplexes (G4s). Extensive in vivo investigations have revealed that promoter G4s are transcriptional regulators. Little structural information exists for these G4s embedded within duplexes, their presumed genomic environment. Here, we report the 7.4 Å resolution structure and dynamics of a 28.5 kDa duplex-G4-duplex (DGD) model system using cryo-EM, molecular dynamics, and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) studies. The DGD cryo-EM refined model features a 53° bend induced by a stacked duplex-G4 interaction at the 5' G-tetrad interface with a persistently unstacked 3' duplex. The surrogate complement poly dT loop preferably stacks onto the 3' G-tetrad interface resulting in occlusion of both 5' and 3' tetrad interfaces. Structural analysis shows that the DGD model is quantifiably more druggable than the monomeric G4 structure alone and represents a new structural drug target. Our results illustrate how the integration of cryo-EM, MD, and SAXS can reveal complementary detailed static and dynamic structural information on DNA G4 systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Monsen
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Eugene Y D Chua
- National Center for CryoEM Access and Training (NCCAT), Simons Electron Microscopy Center, New York Structural Biology Center, NY 10027, USA
| | - Jesse B Hopkins
- The Biophysics Collaborative Access Team (BioCAT), Department of Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Jonathan B Chaires
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - John O Trent
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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8
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Yang M, Bakker D, Raghu D, Li ITS. A single strand: A simplified approach to DNA origami. Front Chem 2023; 11:1126177. [PMID: 36891219 PMCID: PMC9986268 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1126177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Just as a single polypeptide strand can self-fold into a complex 3D structure, a single strand of DNA can self-fold into DNA origami. Most DNA origami structures (i.e., the scaffold-staple and DNA tiling systems) utilize hundreds of short single-stranded DNA. As such, these structures come with challenges inherent to intermolecular construction. Many assembly challenges involving intermolecular interactions can be resolved if the origami structure is constructed from one DNA strand, where folding is not concentration dependent, the folded structure is more resistant to nuclease degradation, and the synthesis can be achieved at an industrial scale at a thousandth of the cost. This review discusses the design principles and considerations employed in single-stranded DNA origami and its potential benefits and drawbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah Yang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - David Bakker
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Dyuti Raghu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Isaac T S Li
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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9
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Zegers J, Peters M, Albada B. DNA G-quadruplex-stabilizing metal complexes as anticancer drugs. J Biol Inorg Chem 2023; 28:117-138. [PMID: 36456886 PMCID: PMC9981530 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-022-01973-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Guanine quadruplexes (G4s) are important targets for cancer treatments as their stabilization has been associated with a reduction of telomere ends or a lower oncogene expression. Although less abundant than purely organic ligands, metal complexes have shown remarkable abilities to stabilize G4s, and a wide variety of techniques have been used to characterize the interaction between ligands and G4s. However, improper alignment between the large variety of experimental techniques and biological activities can lead to improper identification of top candidates, which hampers progress of this important class of G4 stabilizers. To address this, we first review the different techniques for their strengths and weaknesses to determine the interaction of the complexes with G4s, and provide a checklist to guide future developments towards comparable data. Then, we surveyed 74 metal-based ligands for G4s that have been characterized to the in vitro level. Of these complexes, we assessed which methods were used to characterize their G4-stabilizing capacity, their selectivity for G4s over double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), and how this correlated to bioactivity data. For the biological activity data, we compared activities of the G4-stabilizing metal complexes with that of cisplatin. Lastly, we formulated guidelines for future studies on G4-stabilizing metal complexes to further enable maturation of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaccoline Zegers
- grid.4818.50000 0001 0791 5666Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje Peters
- grid.4818.50000 0001 0791 5666Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bauke Albada
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Wageningen University and Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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10
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Structural Polymorphism of Guanine Quadruplex-Containing Regions in Human Promoters. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416020. [PMID: 36555662 PMCID: PMC9786302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Intramolecular guanine quadruplexes (G4s) are non-canonical nucleic acid structures formed by four guanine (G)-rich tracts that assemble into a core of stacked planar tetrads. G4-forming DNA sequences are enriched in gene promoters and are implicated in the control of gene expression. Most G4-forming DNA contains more G residues than can simultaneously be incorporated into the core resulting in a variety of different possible G4 structures. Although this kind of structural polymorphism is well recognized in the literature, there remain unanswered questions regarding possible connections between G4 polymorphism and biological function. Here we report a detailed bioinformatic survey of G4 polymorphism in human gene promoter regions. Our analysis is based on identifying G4-containing regions (G4CRs), which we define as stretches of DNA in which every residue can form part of a G4. We found that G4CRs with higher degrees of polymorphism are more tightly clustered near transcription sites and tend to contain G4s with shorter loops and bulges. Furthermore, we found that G4CRs with well-characterized biological functions tended to be longer and more polymorphic than genome-wide averages. These results represent new evidence linking G4 polymorphism to biological function and provide new criteria for identifying biologically relevant G4-forming regions from genomic data.
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11
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Monsen RC, DeLeeuw LW, Dean W, Gray R, Chakravarthy S, Hopkins J, Chaires J, Trent J. Long promoter sequences form higher-order G-quadruplexes: an integrative structural biology study of c-Myc, k-Ras and c-Kit promoter sequences. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:4127-4147. [PMID: 35325198 PMCID: PMC9023277 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on higher-order G-quadruplex structures adopted by long promoter sequences obtained by an iterative integrated structural biology approach. Our approach uses quantitative biophysical tools (analytical ultracentrifugation, small-angle X-ray scattering, and circular dichroism spectroscopy) combined with modeling and molecular dynamics simulations, to derive self-consistent structural models. The formal resolution of our approach is 18 angstroms, but in some cases structural features of only a few nucleotides can be discerned. We report here five structures of long (34-70 nt) wild-type sequences selected from three cancer-related promoters: c-Myc, c-Kit and k-Ras. Each sequence studied has a unique structure. Three sequences form structures with two contiguous, stacked, G-quadruplex units. One longer sequence from c-Myc forms a structure with three contiguous stacked quadruplexes. A longer c-Kit sequence forms a quadruplex-hairpin structure. Each structure exhibits interfacial regions between stacked quadruplexes or novel loop geometries that are possible druggable targets. We also report methodological advances in our integrated structural biology approach, which now includes quantitative CD for counting stacked G-tetrads, DNaseI cleavage for hairpin detection and SAXS model refinement. Our results suggest that higher-order quadruplex assemblies may be a common feature within the genome, rather than simple single quadruplex structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Monsen
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Lynn W DeLeeuw
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - William L Dean
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Robert D Gray
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Srinivas Chakravarthy
- The Biophysics Collaborative Access Team (BioCAT), Department of Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Jesse B Hopkins
- The Biophysics Collaborative Access Team (BioCAT), Department of Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Jonathan B Chaires
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - John O Trent
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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12
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Vianney YM, Weisz K. Indoloquinoline Ligands Favor Intercalation at Quadruplex-Duplex Interfaces. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202103718. [PMID: 34905232 PMCID: PMC9303235 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202103718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Quadruplex‐duplex (Q‐D) junctions are increasingly considered promising targets for medicinal and technological applications. Here, a Q‐D hybrid with a hairpin‐type snapback loop coaxially stacked onto the quadruplex 3’‐outer tetrad was designed and employed as a target structure for the indoloquinoline ligand SYUIQ‐5. NMR spectral analysis demonstrated high‐affinity binding of the ligand at the quadruplex‐duplex interface with association constants determined by isothermal titration calorimetry of about 107 M−1 and large exothermicities ΔH° of −14 kcal/mol in a 120 mM K+ buffer at 40 °C. Determination of the ligand‐bound hybrid structure revealed intercalation of SYUIQ‐5 between 3’‐outer tetrad and the neighboring CG base pair, maximizing π–π stacking as well as electrostatic interactions with guanine carbonyl groups in close vicinity to the positively charged protonated quinoline nitrogen of the tetracyclic indoloquinoline. Exhibiting considerable flexibility, the SYUIQ‐5 sidechain resides in the duplex minor groove. Based on comparative binding studies with the non‐substituted N5‐methylated indoloquinoline cryptolepine, the sidechain is suggested to confer additional affinity and to fix the alignment of the intercalated indoloquinoline aromatic core. However, selectivity for the Q‐D junction mostly relies on the geometry and charge distribution of the indoloquinoline ring system. The presented results are expected to provide valuable guidelines for the design of ligands specifically targeting Q‐D interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoanes Maria Vianney
- Universität Greifswald Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät: Universitat Greifswald Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultat, Institut für Biochemie, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4, 17489, Greifswald, GERMANY
| | - Klaus Weisz
- Universität Greifswald, Institut für Biochemie, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4, 17487, Greifswald, GERMANY
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13
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Ruiz N, Jarosova P, Taborsky P, Gargallo R. Study of the interaction of the palmatine alkaloid with hybrid G-quadruplex/duplex and i-motif/duplex DNA structures. Biophys Chem 2021; 281:106715. [PMID: 34784553 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2021.106715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in the study of guanine or cytosine-rich sequences that may fold into G-quadruplex (G4) or i-motif (iM) structures showing a short hairpin (or stem-loop) stabilized by Watson-Crick base pairs. These hybrid spatial arrangements may be target of ligands that have been shown to interact strongly with B-DNA. In this work, the interaction of the palmatine alkaloid with several sequences forming different G4s, iMs, and hybrid structures has been studied by means of spectroscopic and separation techniques, as well as multivariate data analysis methods. At the experimental conditions used in this work, the results have shown that this ligand strongly stabilizes parallel G4 structures, whereas a weaker interaction was observed with the antiparallel G4 adopted by the thrombin-binding aptamer or iMs. The presence of hairpins within the loops scarcely affects the affinity of this ligand for the hybrid G4/duplex or iM/duplex structures. Fluorescence measurements have provided evidence of a certain interaction with iMs at pH 5.1, despite the absence of thermal stabilization effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Ruiz
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Martí I Franqués 1-11, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Petra Jarosova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Taborsky
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Raimundo Gargallo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, University of Barcelona, Martí I Franqués 1-11, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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14
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Grün JT, Schwalbe H. Folding dynamics of polymorphic G-quadruplex structures. Biopolymers 2021; 113:e23477. [PMID: 34664713 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4), found in numerous places within the human genome, are involved in essential processes of cell regulation. Chromosomal DNA G4s are involved for example, in replication and transcription as first steps of gene expression. Hence, they influence a plethora of downstream processes. G4s possess an intricate structure that differs from canonical B-form DNA. Identical DNA G4 sequences can adopt multiple long-lived conformations, a phenomenon known as G4 polymorphism. A detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive G4 folding is essential to understand their ambivalent regulatory roles. Disentangling the inherent dynamic and polymorphic nature of G4 structures thus is key to unravel their biological functions and make them amenable as molecular targets in novel therapeutic approaches. We here review recent experimental approaches to monitor G4 folding and discuss structural aspects for possible folding pathways. Substantial progress in the understanding of G4 folding within the recent years now allows drawing comprehensive models of the complex folding energy landscape of G4s that we herein evaluate based on computational and experimental evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Tassilo Grün
- Department of Chemical and Biological Physics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Harald Schwalbe
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt/M, Germany.,Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt/M, Germany
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15
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Teng FY, Jiang ZZ, Guo M, Tan XZ, Chen F, Xi XG, Xu Y. G-quadruplex DNA: a novel target for drug design. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6557-6583. [PMID: 34459951 PMCID: PMC11072987 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03921-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplex (G4) DNA is a type of quadruple helix structure formed by a continuous guanine-rich DNA sequence. Emerging evidence in recent years authenticated that G4 DNA structures exist both in cell-free and cellular systems, and function in different diseases, especially in various cancers, aging, neurological diseases, and have been considered novel promising targets for drug design. In this review, we summarize the detection method and the structure of G4, highlighting some non-canonical G4 DNA structures, such as G4 with a bulge, a vacancy, or a hairpin. Subsequently, the functions of G4 DNA in physiological processes are discussed, especially their regulation of DNA replication, transcription of disease-related genes (c-MYC, BCL-2, KRAS, c-KIT et al.), telomere maintenance, and epigenetic regulation. Typical G4 ligands that target promoters and telomeres for drug design are also reviewed, including ellipticine derivatives, quinoxaline analogs, telomestatin analogs, berberine derivatives, and CX-5461, which is currently in advanced phase I/II clinical trials for patients with hematologic cancer and BRCA1/2-deficient tumors. Furthermore, since the long-term stable existence of G4 DNA structures could result in genomic instability, we summarized the G4 unfolding mechanisms emerged recently by multiple G4-specific DNA helicases, such as Pif1, RecQ family helicases, FANCJ, and DHX36. This review aims to present a general overview of the field of G-quadruplex DNA that has progressed in recent years and provides potential strategies for drug design and disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Yuan Teng
- Experimental Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou, and Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, and Academician (Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zong-Zhe Jiang
- Experimental Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou, and Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, and Academician (Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Man Guo
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou, and Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, and Academician (Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiao-Zhen Tan
- Experimental Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou, and Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, and Academician (Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Experimental Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Xu-Guang Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
- LBPA, Ecole Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Université Paris Saclay, 61, Avenue du Président Wilson, 94235, Cachan, France.
| | - Yong Xu
- Experimental Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China.
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Luzhou, and Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Nephropathy, and Academician (Expert) Workstation of Sichuan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China.
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16
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Fleming AM, Burrows CJ. Oxidative stress-mediated epigenetic regulation by G-quadruplexes. NAR Cancer 2021; 3:zcab038. [PMID: 34541539 PMCID: PMC8445369 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcab038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many cancer-associated genes are regulated by guanine (G)-rich sequences that are capable of refolding from the canonical duplex structure to an intrastrand G-quadruplex. These same sequences are sensitive to oxidative damage that is repaired by the base excision repair glycosylases OGG1 and NEIL1–3. We describe studies indicating that oxidation of a guanosine base in a gene promoter G-quadruplex can lead to up- and downregulation of gene expression that is location dependent and involves the base excision repair pathway in which the first intermediate, an apurinic (AP) site, plays a key role mediated by AP endonuclease 1 (APE1/REF1). The nuclease activity of APE1 is paused at a G-quadruplex, while the REF1 capacity of this protein engages activating transcription factors such as HIF-1α, AP-1 and p53. The mechanism has been probed by in vitro biophysical studies, whole-genome approaches and reporter plasmids in cellulo. Replacement of promoter elements by a G-quadruplex sequence usually led to upregulation, but depending on the strand and precise location, examples of downregulation were also found. The impact of oxidative stress-mediated lesions in the G-rich sequence enhanced the effect, whether it was positive or negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Fleming
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 S. 1400 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0850, USA
| | - Cynthia J Burrows
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 S. 1400 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0850, USA
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17
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Liu L, Wang K, Liu W, Zeng Y, Hou M, Yang J, Mao Z. Spatial Matching Selectivity and Solution Structure of Organic–Metal Hybrid to Quadruplex–Duplex Hybrid. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202106256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liu‐Yi Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - Kang‐Nan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - Wenting Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - You‐Liang Zeng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - Ming‐Xuan Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - Jing Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
| | - Zong‐Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 P. R. China
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18
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Gudanis D, Zielińska K, Baranowski D, Kierzek R, Kozłowski P, Gdaniec Z. Impact of a Single Nucleotide Change or Non-Nucleoside Modifications in G-Rich Region on the Quadruplex-Duplex Hybrid Formation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081236. [PMID: 34439902 PMCID: PMC8392043 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, a method to discriminate between two target RNA sequences that differ by one nucleotide only is presented. The method relies on the formation of alternative structures, i.e., quadruplex–duplex hybrid (QDH) and duplex with dangling ends (Dss), after hybridization of DNA or RNA G-rich oligonucleotides with target sequences containing 5′–GGGCUGG–3′ or 5′–GGGCGGG–3′ fragments. Using biophysical methods, we studied the effect of oligonucleotide types (DNA, RNA), non-nucleotide modifications (aliphatic linkers or abasic), and covalently attached G4 ligand on the ability of G-rich oligonucleotides to assemble a G-quadruplex motif. We demonstrated that all examined non-nucleotide modifications could mimic the external loops in the G-quadruplex domain of QDH structures without affecting their stability. Additionally, some modifications, in particular the presence of two abasic residues in the G-rich oligonucleotide, can induce the formation of non-canonical QDH instead of the Dss structure upon hybridization to a target sequence containing the GGGCUGG motif. Our results offer new insight into the sequential requirements for the formation of G-quadruplexes and provide important data on the effects of non-nucleotide modifications on G-quadruplex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Gudanis
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (Z.G.); Tel.: +48-61-852-85-03 (ext. 1286) (D.G.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zofia Gdaniec
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (Z.G.); Tel.: +48-61-852-85-03 (ext. 1286) (D.G.)
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19
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Santos T, Salgado GF, Cabrita EJ, Cruz C. G-Quadruplexes and Their Ligands: Biophysical Methods to Unravel G-Quadruplex/Ligand Interactions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:769. [PMID: 34451866 PMCID: PMC8401999 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in the design of G-quadruplex (G4) binding ligands relies on the availability of approaches that assess the binding mode and nature of the interactions between G4 forming sequences and their putative ligands. The experimental approaches used to characterize G4/ligand interactions can be categorized into structure-based methods (circular dichroism (CD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography), affinity and apparent affinity-based methods (surface plasmon resonance (SPR), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and mass spectrometry (MS)), and high-throughput methods (fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-melting, G4-fluorescent intercalator displacement assay (G4-FID), affinity chromatography and microarrays. Each method has unique advantages and drawbacks, which makes it essential to select the ideal strategies for the biological question being addressed. The structural- and affinity and apparent affinity-based methods are in several cases complex and/or time-consuming and can be combined with fast and cheap high-throughput approaches to improve the design and development of new potential G4 ligands. In recent years, the joint use of these techniques permitted the discovery of a huge number of G4 ligands investigated for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Overall, this review article highlights in detail the most commonly used approaches to characterize the G4/ligand interactions, as well as the applications and types of information that can be obtained from the use of each technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Santos
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Gilmar F. Salgado
- ARNA Laboratory, Université de Bordeaux, Inserm U1212, CNRS UMR 5320, IECB, 33607 Pessac, France;
| | - Eurico J. Cabrita
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
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20
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Yang M, Carter S, Parmar S, Bume DD, Calabrese DR, Liang X, Yazdani K, Xu M, Liu Z, Thiele CJ, Schneekloth JS. Targeting a noncanonical, hairpin-containing G-quadruplex structure from the MYCN gene. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:7856-7869. [PMID: 34289065 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The MYCN gene encodes the transcription factor N-Myc, a driver of neuroblastoma (NB). Targeting G-quadruplexes (G4s) with small molecules is attractive strategy to control the expression of undruggable proteins such as N-Myc. However, selective binders to G4s are challenging to identify due to the structural similarity of many G4s. Here, we report the discovery of a small molecule ligand (4) that targets the noncanonical, hairpin containing G4 structure found in the MYCN gene using small molecule microarrays (SMMs). Unlike many G4 binders, the compound was found to bind to a pocket at the base of the hairpin region of the MYCN G4. This compound stabilizes the G4 and has affinity of 3.5 ± 1.6 μM. Moreover, an improved analog, MY-8, suppressed levels of both MYCN and MYCNOS (a lncRNA embedded within the MYCN gene) in NBEB neuroblastoma cells. This work indicates that the approach of targeting complex, hybrid G4 structures that exist throughout the human genome may be an applicable strategy to achieve selectivity for targeting disease-relevant genes including protein coding (MYCN) as well as non-coding (MYCNOS) gene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo Yang
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Sakereh Carter
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892-1928, USA
| | - Shaifaly Parmar
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Desta D Bume
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - David R Calabrese
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Xiao Liang
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Kamyar Yazdani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Man Xu
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892-1928, USA
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892-1928, USA
| | - Carol J Thiele
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892-1928, USA
| | - John S Schneekloth
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
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21
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Liu LY, Wang KN, Liu W, Zeng YL, Hou MX, Yang J, Mao ZW. Spatial Matching Selectivity and Solution Structure of Organic-Metal Hybrid to Quadruplex-Duplex Hybrid. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:20833-20839. [PMID: 34288320 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202106256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The sequence-dependent DNA secondary structures possess structure polymorphism. To date, studies on regulated ligands mainly focus on individual DNA secondary topologies, while lack focus on quadruplex-duplex hybrids (QDHs). Here, we design an organic-metal hybrid ligand L1 Pt(dien), which matches and selectively binds one type of QDHs with lateral duplex stem-loop (QLDH) with high affinity, while shows poor affinity for other QDHs and individual G4 or duplex DNA. The solution structure of QLDH MYT1L-L1 Pt(dien) complex was determined by NMR. The structure reveals that L1 Pt(dien) presents a chair-type conformation, whose large aromatic "chair surface" intercalates into the G-quadruplex-duplex interface via π-π stacking and "backrest" platinum unit interacts with duplex region through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, showing a highly matched lock-key binding mode. Our work provided guidance for spatial matching design of selectively targeting ligands to QDH structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu-Yi Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Kang-Nan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Wenting Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - You-Liang Zeng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Ming-Xuan Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Jing Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Zong-Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
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22
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Minasyan AS, Chakravarthy S, Vardelly S, Joseph M, Nesterov EE, Nesterova IV. Rational design of guiding elements to control folding topology in i-motifs with multiple quadruplexes. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:8875-8883. [PMID: 33949568 PMCID: PMC8210535 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr00611h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids are versatile scaffolds that accommodate a wide range of precisely defined operational characteristics. Rational design of sensing, molecular computing, nanotechnology, and other nucleic acid devices requires precise control over folding conformations in these macromolecules. Here, we report a new approach that empowers well-defined conformational transitions in DNA molecular devices. Specifically, we develop tools for precise folding of multiple DNA quadruplexes (i-motifs) within the same oligonucleotide strand. To accomplish this task, we modify a DNA strand with kinetic control elements (hairpins and double stranded stems) that fold on a much faster timescale and consequently guide quadruplexes toward the targeted folding topology. To demonstrate that such guiding elements indeed facilitate formation of the targeted folding topology, we thoroughly characterize the folding/unfolding transitions through a combination of thermodynamic techniques, size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Furthermore, we extend SAXS capabilities to produce a direct insight on the shape and dimensions of the folded quadruplexes by computing their electron density maps from solution scattering data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S Minasyan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | | | - Suchitra Vardelly
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | - Mark Joseph
- Department of Natural Science, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD 21853, USA
| | - Evgueni E Nesterov
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | - Irina V Nesterova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA.
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23
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Banco MT, Ferré-D'Amaré AR. The emerging structural complexity of G-quadruplex RNAs. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:390-402. [PMID: 33483368 PMCID: PMC7962482 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078238.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are four-stranded nucleic acid structures that arise from the stacking of G-quartets, cyclic arrangements of four guanines engaged in Hoogsteen base-pairing. Until recently, most RNA G4 structures were thought to conform to a sequence pattern in which guanines stacking within the G4 would also be contiguous in sequence (e.g., four successive guanine trinucleotide tracts separated by loop nucleotides). Such a sequence restriction, and the stereochemical constraints inherent to RNA (arising, in particular, from the presence of the 2'-OH), dictate relatively simple RNA G4 structures. Recent crystallographic and solution NMR structure determinations of a number of in vitro selected RNA aptamers have revealed RNA G4 structures of unprecedented complexity. Structures of the Sc1 aptamer that binds an RGG peptide from the Fragile-X mental retardation protein, various fluorescence turn-on aptamers (Corn, Mango, and Spinach), and the spiegelmer that binds the complement protein C5a, in particular, reveal complexity hitherto unsuspected in RNA G4s, including nucleotides in syn conformation, locally inverted strand polarity, and nucleotide quartets that are not all-G. Common to these new structures, the sequences folding into G4s do not conform to the requirement that guanine stacks arise from consecutive (contiguous in sequence) nucleotides. This review highlights how emancipation from this constraint drastically expands the structural possibilities of RNA G-quadruplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Banco
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-8012, USA
| | - Adrian R Ferré-D'Amaré
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-8012, USA
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Jana J, Mohr S, Vianney YM, Weisz K. Structural motifs and intramolecular interactions in non-canonical G-quadruplexes. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:338-353. [PMID: 34458788 PMCID: PMC8341446 DOI: 10.1039/d0cb00211a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Guanine(G)-rich DNA or RNA sequences can assemble or intramolecularly fold into G-quadruplexes formed through the stacking of planar G·G·G·G tetrads in the presence of monovalent cations. These secondary nucleic acid structures have convincingly been shown to also exist within a cellular environment exerting important regulatory functions in physiological processes. For identifying nucleic acid segments prone to quadruplex formation, a putative quadruplex sequence motif encompassing closely spaced tracts of three or more guanosines is frequently employed for bioinformatic search algorithms. Depending on the number and type of intervening residues as well as on solution conditions, such sequences may fold into various canonical G4 topologies with continuous G-columns. On the other hand, a growing number of sequences capable of quadruplex formation feature G-deficient guanine tracts, escaping the conservative consensus motif. By folding into non-canonical quadruplex structures, they adopt unique topologies depending on their specific sequence context. These include G-columns with only two guanines, bulges, snapback loops, D- and V-shaped loops as well as interlocked structures. This review focuses on G-quadruplex species carrying such distinct structural motifs. It evaluates characteristic features of their non-conventional scaffold and highlights principles of stabilizing interactions that also allow for their folding into stable G-quadruplex structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagannath Jana
- Institute of Biochemistry, Universität Greifswald Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4 D-17487 Greifswald Germany +49 3834 420-4427 +49 3834 420-4426
| | - Swantje Mohr
- Institute of Biochemistry, Universität Greifswald Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4 D-17487 Greifswald Germany +49 3834 420-4427 +49 3834 420-4426
| | - Yoanes Maria Vianney
- Institute of Biochemistry, Universität Greifswald Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4 D-17487 Greifswald Germany +49 3834 420-4427 +49 3834 420-4426
| | - Klaus Weisz
- Institute of Biochemistry, Universität Greifswald Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4 D-17487 Greifswald Germany +49 3834 420-4427 +49 3834 420-4426
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Díaz-Casado L, Serrano-Chacón I, Montalvillo-Jiménez L, Corzana F, Bastida A, Santana AG, González C, Asensio JL. De Novo Design of Selective Quadruplex-Duplex Junction Ligands and Structural Characterisation of Their Binding Mode: Targeting the G4 Hot-Spot. Chemistry 2021; 27:6204-6212. [PMID: 33368678 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202005026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Targeting the interface between DNA quadruplex and duplex regions by small molecules holds significant promise in both therapeutics and nanotechnology. Herein, a new pharmacophore is reported, which selectively binds with high affinity to quadruplex-duplex junctions, while presenting a poorer affinity for G-quadruplex or duplex DNA alone. Ligands complying with the reported pharmacophore exhibit a significant affinity and selectivity for quadruplex-duplex junctions, including the one observed in the HIV-1 LTR-III sequence. The structure of the complex between a quadruplex-duplex junction with a ligand of this family has been determined by NMR methods. According to these data, the remarkable selectivity of this structural motif for quadruplex-duplex junctions is achieved through an unprecedented interaction mode so far unexploited in medicinal and biological chemistry: the insertion of a benzylic ammonium moiety into the centre of the partially exposed G-tetrad at the interface with the duplex. Further decoration of the described scaffolds with additional fragments opens up the road to the development of selective ligands for G-quadruplex-forming regions of the genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Díaz-Casado
- Glycochemistry and Molecular Recognition group-Dpt. Bio-Organic Chemistry, Instituto de Química Orgánica General (IQOG-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Israel Serrano-Chacón
- Instituto de Química-Física Rocasolano (IQFR-CSIC), Serrano 119., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Montalvillo-Jiménez
- Glycochemistry and Molecular Recognition group-Dpt. Bio-Organic Chemistry, Instituto de Química Orgánica General (IQOG-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Corzana
- Department of Chemistry, Centro de Investigación en Síntesis Química, Universidad de La Rioja, Madre de Dios, 53., 26006, Logroño, Spain
| | - Agatha Bastida
- Glycochemistry and Molecular Recognition group-Dpt. Bio-Organic Chemistry, Instituto de Química Orgánica General (IQOG-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrés G Santana
- Glycochemistry and Molecular Recognition group-Dpt. Bio-Organic Chemistry, Instituto de Química Orgánica General (IQOG-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos González
- Instituto de Química-Física Rocasolano (IQFR-CSIC), Serrano 119., 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Asensio
- Glycochemistry and Molecular Recognition group-Dpt. Bio-Organic Chemistry, Instituto de Química Orgánica General (IQOG-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3., 28006, Madrid, Spain
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Lenarčič Živković M, Rozman J, Plavec J. Structure of a DNA G-Quadruplex Related to Osteoporosis with a G-A Bulge Forming a Pseudo-loop. Molecules 2020; 25:E4867. [PMID: 33096904 PMCID: PMC7588008 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone remodeling is a fine-tuned process principally regulated by a cascade triggered by interaction of receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) and RANK ligand (RANKL). Excessive activity of the RANKL gene leads to increased bone resorption and can influence the incidence of osteoporosis. Although much has been learned about the intracellular signals activated by RANKL/RANK complex, significantly less is known about the molecular mechanisms of regulation of RANKL expression. Here, we report on the structure of an unprecedented DNA G-quadruplex, well-known secondary structure-mediated gene expression regulator, formed by a G-rich sequence found in the regulatory region of a RANKL gene. Solution-state NMR structural study reveals the formation of a three-layered parallel-type G-quadruplex characterized by an unique features, including a G-A bulge. Although a guanine within a G-tract occupies syn glycosidic conformation, bulge-forming residues arrange in a pseudo-loop conformation to facilitate partial 5/6-ring stacking, typical of G-quadruplex structures with parallel G-tracts orientation. Such distinctive structural features protruding from the core of the structure can represent a novel platform for design of highly specific ligands with anti-osteoporotic function. Additionally, our study suggests that the expression of RANKL gene may be regulated by putative folding of its G-rich region into non-B-DNA structure(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Lenarčič Živković
- Slovenian NMR Centre, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Rozman
- Slovenian NMR Centre, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Janez Plavec
- Slovenian NMR Centre, National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- EN-FIST Centre of Excellence, Trg OF 13, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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