Elucidating the mechanism of the considerable mechanical stiffening of DNA induced by the couple Zn2+/Calix[4]arene-1,3-O-diphosphorous acid.

ABSTRACT: The couple Calix[4]arene-1,3-O-diphosphorous acid (C4diP) and zinc ions (Zn2+) acts as a synergistic DNA binder. Silicon NanoTweezer (SNT) measurements show an increase in the mechanical stiffness of DNA bundles by a factor of >150, at Zn2+ to C4diP ratios above 8, as compared to Zinc alone whereas C4diP alone decreases the stiffness of DNA. Electroanalytical measurements using 3D printed devices demonstrate a progression of events in the assembly of C4diP on DNA promoted by zinc ions. A mechanism at the molecular level can be deduced in which C4diP initially coordinates to DNA by phosphate-phosphate hydrogen bonds or in the presence of Zn2+ by Zn2+ bridging coordination of the phosphate groups. Then, at high ratios of Zn2+ to C4diP, interdigitated dimerization of C4diP is followed by cros

SUBMITTER: Tauran Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5775194 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature