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How are thermodynamically stable G-quadruplex–duplex hybrids?

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Abstract

In the last decade, DNA duplex and G-quadruplex motifs have been investigated for their potential applications in nanotechnology. Recently, G-quadruplex–duplex hybrids, generated from the juxtaposition of these two structural elements, have been considered as DNA nanostructures for nanotechnological applications to take advantage of both duplex and G-quadruplex peculiarities. The junction between the two structural motifs can play an important role both for the structure and stability of these hybrids. Here, we analyze the thermodynamics of a number of G-quadruplex–duplex hybrids differing in the bases composition in proximity of the junction. Differential scanning calorimetry, circular dichroism, and gel electrophoresis methodologies were employed to highlight differences in their stability.

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Acknowledgements

We thank Anh Tuan Phan and Kah Wai Lim (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore) for generously providing the investigated oligonucleotide sequences. Financial support from “Future in Research” (FIR) 2013 Grant is gratefully acknowledged (Project code RBFR13XFXR).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy

    Iolanda Fotticchia, Jussara Amato, Bruno Pagano, Ettore Novellino & Concetta Giancola

  2. Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 80126, Naples, Italy

    Luigi Petraccone

Authors
  1. Iolanda Fotticchia
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  2. Jussara Amato
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  3. Bruno Pagano
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  4. Ettore Novellino
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  5. Luigi Petraccone
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  6. Concetta Giancola
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Correspondence to Concetta Giancola.

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Fotticchia, I., Amato, J., Pagano, B. et al. How are thermodynamically stable G-quadruplex–duplex hybrids?. J Therm Anal Calorim 121, 1121–1127 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10973-015-4588-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10973-015-4588-y

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