DNA-specific selectivity in pairing of model nucleobases in the solid state

Chem Commun (Camb). 2020 Nov 5;56(88):13524-13527. doi: 10.1039/d0cc03491f.

Abstract

Nucleobases methylated at the glycosidic nitrogen atom achieve DNA-specific self-assembly upon heating in the solid state. We report formation and characterisation of the elusive cocrystal of methylated guanine and methylated cytosine, exhibiting Watson-Crick-type hydrogen bonding, and the crystal structure of 9-methylguanine.

MeSH terms

  • Base Pairing
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA Methylation
  • Guanine / analogs & derivatives
  • Guanine / chemistry
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Models, Molecular
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Substrate Specificity

Substances

  • 9-methylguanine
  • Guanine
  • DNA