Molecular Classification
Nucleic acid structure
Other Names
G-quadruplex, G quadruplex, G4 DNA, G-tetrad DNA
Disease Roles
CancerAgingNeurological disorders

DNA G-Quadruplex Overview

DNA G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical, four-stranded secondary structures formed in nucleic acids by sequences rich in guanine. These structures are stabilized by the stacking of guanine tetrads and are found at telomeric regions, gene promoters, and regulatory regions throughout eukaryotic genomes. G4s regulate key genome functions including transcriptional control, replication, and genome stability, and are implicated in diseases such as cancer, aging, and neurological disorders. Drug targeting approaches involve small molecules that stabilize specific quadruplex conformations.

Mechanism of Action

Stabilization of G-quadruplex structures to inhibit oncogene expression or disrupt telomere function

Biological Functions

Transcription regulation
Replication control
Genome stability
Telomere maintenance
Epigenetic regulation

Disease Associations

Cancer
Aging
Neurological disorders

Safety Considerations

  • Off-target effects due to widespread presence of G4 motifs
  • Potential for disrupting essential cellular processes

Interacting Drugs

Ellipticine derivatives
Quinoxaline analogs
Berberine derivatives
Telomestatin analogs
CX-5461