Zn(2+)-selective switch of duplex to hairpin DNA.
DNA sequences that undergo large changes in secondary structure upon binding of small molecules are the basis for molecular switches. Here we report a Zn(2+) complex that promotes the conversion of a fully complementary DNA double helix into DNA hairpins. The conformational switch is promoted by an isolated Zn(2+) complex or by free ZnCl2 and a macrocyclic ligand. The switch is selective for Zn(2+) over biologically relevant transition-metal ions including Cu(2+) and Fe(2+). The dual ligand/DNA switch is an approach that may improve the selectivity for metal-ion-sensing applications.
Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Amherst, New York 14260, United States.
Stephanie A
SA
Sander
Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Amherst, New York 14260, United States.
Alexandra K
AK
Van Hall
Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Amherst, New York 14260, United States.
Janet R
JR
Morrow
D004247:DNA / Q000737:chemistry*; D004591:Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; D055029:Inverted Repeat Sequences / Q000235:genetics; D007477:Ions; D008024:Ligands; D047028:Macrocyclic Compounds / Q000737:chemistry; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D015032:Zinc / Q000737:chemistry*
D007477:Ions; D008024:Ligands; D047028:Macrocyclic Compounds; D004247:DNA; D015032:Zinc