Abstract
Repeat tracts of guanine bases found in DNA and RNA can form tetraplex structures in the presence of a variety of monovalent cations. Evidence suggests that guanine tetraplexes assume important functions within chromosomal telomeres, immunoglobulin switch regions, and the human immunodeficiency virus genome. The structure of a parallel-stranded tetraplex formed by the hexanucleotide d(TG4T) and stabilized by sodium cations was determined by x-ray crystallography to 1.2 angstroms resolution. Sharply resolved sodium cations were found between and within planes of hydrogen-bonded guanine quartets, and an ordered groove hydration was observed. Distinct intra- and intermolecular stacking arrangements were adopted by the guanine quartets. Thymine bases were exclusively involved in making extensive lattice contacts.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 520-524 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Science |
| Volume | 265 |
| Issue number | 5171 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 22 Jul 1994 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General