DNA bending by asymmetrically tethered cations: influence of tether flexibility.
Chem Biol
; 8(10): 967-80, 2001 Oct.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-11590021
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
We have been studying the proposal that laterally asymmetric charge neutralization along the DNA double helix can induce collapse toward the neutralized surface. Results of previous experiments implied that such a phenomenon can occur, suggesting a role for local interphosphate repulsive forces in DNA shape and rigidity.RESULTS:
We now show that, whereas six ammonium ions tethered to one DNA face on flexible propyl chains can induce detectable DNA curvature, tethering of ammonium ions on rigid propynyl tethers does not induce DNA curvature. Molecular modeling indicates differing propensities for phosphate salt bridge formation between propyl- and propynyl-tethered ammonium ions.CONCLUSIONS:
Ammonium ion localization is suggested as a key factor in induced bending. Rigidification of the double helix by stacking of propyne groups cannot be excluded.
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Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
DNA
/
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Type of study:
Prognostic_studies
Language:
En
Journal:
Chem Biol
Journal subject:
BIOLOGIA
/
BIOQUIMICA
/
QUIMICA
Year:
2001
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country: