Polymorphism of human telomeric quadruplex structures

Biochimie. 2008 Aug;90(8):1172-83. doi: 10.1016/j.biochi.2008.02.026. Epub 2008 Mar 8.

Abstract

Human telomeric DNA consists of tandem repeats of the sequence d(TTAGGG). Compounds that can stabilize the intramolecular DNA G-quadruplexes formed in the human telomeric sequence have been shown to inhibit the activity of telomerase and telomere maintenance, thus the telomeric DNA G-quadruplex has been considered as an attractive target for cancer therapeutic intervention. Knowledge of intramolecular human telomeric G-quadruplex structure(s) formed under physiological conditions is important for structure-based rational drug design and thus has been the subject of intense investigation. This review will give an overview of recent progress on the intramolecular human telomeric G-quadruplex structures formed in K+ solution. It will also give insight into the structure polymorphism of human telomeric sequences and its implications for drug targeting.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Base Sequence
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA / genetics*
  • DNA / metabolism
  • G-Quadruplexes*
  • Humans
  • Polymorphism, Genetic*
  • Potassium / chemistry
  • Potassium / metabolism
  • Telomere / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA
  • Potassium