Low-frequency vibrational modes in G-quadruplexes reveal the mechanical properties of nucleic acids

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2021 Jun 21;23(23):13250-13260. doi: 10.1039/d0cp05404f. Epub 2021 Jun 4.

Abstract

Low-frequency vibrations play an essential role in biomolecular processes involving DNA such as gene expression, charge transfer, drug intercalation, and DNA-protein recognition. However, understanding the vibrational basis of these mechanisms relies on theoretical models due to the lack of experimental evidence. Here we present the low-frequency vibrational spectra of G-quadruplexes (structures formed by four strands of DNA) and B-DNA characterized using femtosecond optical Kerr-effect spectroscopy. Contrary to expectation, we found that G-quadruplexes show several strongly underdamped delocalized phonon-like modes that have the potential to contribute to the biology of the DNA at the atomic level. In addition, G-quadruplexes present modes at a higher frequency than B-DNA demonstrating that changes in the stiffness of the molecule alter its gigahertz to terahertz vibrational profile.

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry*
  • G-Quadruplexes
  • Models, Molecular
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Vibration

Substances

  • DNA