The DNA-forming properties of 6-selenoguanine

Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2014 Jan 21;16(3):1101-10. doi: 10.1039/c3cp53885k. Epub 2013 Nov 28.

Abstract

We present here an exhaustive characterization of the structure and properties of 6-selenoguanine, an isoster of guanine, and the impact of its introduction in DNA. This study reports the results of state-of-the-art quantum mechanical calculations and atomistic molecular dynamics simulations carried out to shed light on the impact of the replacement of guanine (G) by 6-selenoguanine (SeG) in different forms of DNA. The results point out that the G → SeG substitution leads to stable DNA duplex, antiparallel triplex and G-quadruplex structures, though local distortions are also found. These structural changes affect the thermodynamic stability of the mutation leading to a clear destabilization for all studied systems. Interestingly, the lowest effect has been found when the mutation was placed in the triplex-forming oligonucleotide strand in a reverse Hoogsteen orientation, which favours the antiparallel triplex formation regarding the G-tetraplex formation. Detailed QM studies strongly suggest that SeG impacts the HOMO-LUMO gap and accordingly the transfer properties of DNA, opening the way to modulate the conductivity properties of non-natural DNAs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Guanine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Guanine / chemistry
  • Molecular Structure
  • Organoselenium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Quantum Theory
  • Thermodynamics

Substances

  • Organoselenium Compounds
  • 6-selenoguanine
  • Guanine
  • DNA