Structure of new DNA topology: GGT8

Abstract

Aside from the classic double helix model, guanine-rich DNA sequence can adopt non-canonical structure called G-quadruplex. Existence of such a structure in human cells and its implication in cellular processes as well as the potential for medical use and biomaterials development, have been reported. G-quadruplex have been observed mainly in right-handed forms and left-handed G-quadruplex has been discovered but rarely been observed. Here we present the NMR solution of a four-layered DNA G-quadruplex with an unprecedented formation. This expands the diversity of G-quadruplex and provide new possibilities for design and prediction of the structure of G-quadruplex.