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