A Nucleotide-Derived Fluorophore for Visualizing G-Quadruplex Assembly and Introduction of Cation-Regulated Activity into the Thrombin Binding Aptamer.
Unlock the secrets of G-quadruplex assembly with a fluorescent nucleotide! This breakthrough introduces cation-regulated activity into the thrombin-binding aptamer, paving the way for advanced nanodevices.
This study explores the use of a fluorescent nucleotide analog, 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-1,N6-ethenoadenine (oxo-εA), to investigate the conformational changes and folding kinetics of the thrombin-binding aptamer. The researchers found that a single oxo-εA modification at specific positions can increase the aptamer's affinity for thrombin by tenfold. Furthermore, a double oxo-εA modification resulted in Ag+-dependent aptamer activity, mimicking the crucial T:T base pair. The intrinsic fluorescence of oxo-εA allowed the researchers to capture the rapid kinetics of aptamer folding, providing valuable insights into G-quadruplex assembly. The study's findings have significant implications for the rational design and optimization of aptamers for integration into nanodevices, advancing the field of biotechnology.