Self-Assembly Nanostructure Induced by Regulation of G-Quadruplex DNA Topology via a Reduction-Sensitive Azobenzene Ligand on Cells

Biomacromolecules. 2023 Nov 13;24(11):5004-5017. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00657. Epub 2023 Oct 16.

Abstract

The control of DNA assembly systems on cells has increasingly shown great importance for precisely targeted therapies. Here, we report a controllable DNA self-assembly system based on the regulation of G-quadruplex DNA topology by a reduction-sensitive azobenzene ligand. Specifically, three azobenzene multiamines are developed, and AzoDiTren is identified as the best G4 binder, which displays high affinity and specificity for G4 DNA. Moreover, the reduction-sensitive nature of the azobenzene scaffold allows AzoDiTren to induce a complete change of the G4 topology in a tissue-specific manner, even at high metal cation concentrations. On this basis, the AzoDiTren-induced G4 conformational switch achieves control of the self-assembly of G4-functionalized DNAs on cells. This strategy enables the regulation of G4 and DNA self-assembly by the bioreductant-responsive ligand.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Azo Compounds / pharmacology
  • DNA
  • G-Quadruplexes*
  • Ligands

Substances

  • azobenzene
  • Ligands
  • DNA
  • Azo Compounds