Specific Monitoring the DNA Helicase Function via Anchor-Embedded DNA Probe.

ABSTRACT: DNA helicases play a pivotal role in maintaining genome integrity by unwinding the DNA double helix and are often considered promising targets for drug development. However, assessing specific DNA helicase activity in living cells remains challenging. Herein, the first anchor-embedded duplex (ATED) probe, 17GC, is constructed to uniquely monitor the unwinding activity of Werner syndrome helicase (WRN), a clinical anticancer target. This probe integrates biophysical screening and molecular simulation approaches. The 17GC probe consists of two components: the first one is a bubble structure as an anchor for recruiting WRN in cells, and the second one is GC-rich double helices on both ends of the bubble, which allow high sensitivity in detecting WRN activity. In vitro evaluations demonstrate

SUBMITTER: Ning K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11848566 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature