Abstract
G-quadruplexes are noncanonical four-stranded DNA and RNA secondary structures formed in guanine-rich sequences. DNA G-quadruplexes are found in specific human genomic locations of functional significance, such as telomeres, promoters, and replication initiation sites. They are involved in essential cellular processes, such as genome stability, gene transcription, and DNA replication. DNA G-quadruplexes readily form under physiologically relevant solution conditions. Their globular shape sets them apart from the thread-like double-helix DNA. As such, DNA G-quadruplexes are considered a new class of molecular targets for drug development. Additionally, there is considerable interest in the use of G-quadruplexes for biomaterials, biosensors, and biocatalysts. Therefore, DNA G-quadruplex has emerged as one of the most exciting nucleic acid secondary structures. Structural information of DNA G-quadruplexes is essential to understand their biological functions, therapeutic interventions, and biomaterial applications. This chapter discusses structural characteristics of DNA G-quadruplexes and their drug interactions.
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Acknowledgments
This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health R01CA177585 and U01CA240346 (D.Y.), P30CA023168 (Purdue Center for Cancer Research).
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Han, Y., Dickerhoff, J., Yang, D. (2023). Structures of G-Quadruplexes and Their Drug Interactions. In: Sugimoto, N. (eds) Handbook of Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-1313-5_10-1
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