Regulation of transcription through light-activation and light-deactivation of triplex-forming oligonucleotides in mammalian cells.

ABSTRACT: Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) are efficient tools to regulate gene expression through the inhibition of transcription. Here, nucleobase-caging technology was applied to the temporal regulation of transcription through light-activated TFOs. Through site-specific incorporation of caged thymidine nucleotides, the TFO:DNA triplex formation is blocked, rendering the TFO inactive. However, after a brief UV irradiation, the caging groups are removed, activating the TFO and leading to the inhibition of transcription. Furthermore, the synthesis and site-specific incorporation of caged deoxycytidine nucleotides within TFO inhibitor sequences was developed, allowing for the light-deactivation of TFO function and thus photochemical activation of gene expression. After UV-induced removal of t

SUBMITTER: Govan JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3401312 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature