Triplex formation on DNA targets: how to choose the oligonucleotide.

Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) are sequence-specific DNA binders. TFOs provide a tool for controlling gene expression or, when attached to an appropriate chemical reagent, for directing DNA damage. Here, we report a set of rules for predicting the best out of five different triple-helical binding motifs (TM, UM, GA, GT, and GU, where M is 5-methyldeoxycytidine and U is deoxyuridine) by taking into consideration the sequence composition of the underlying duplex target.

[Gene regulation and bioinformatics].

Gene regulation networks control differentiation and function of hundreds of cell types. Dysfunctions of transcription factors, which are key elements in the regulation pathways, are involved in numerous pathologies. The recent development of genomics technologies allows the study of gene regulation mechanisms and help us understand their impact on the cells.

Optimization of triple-helix-directed DNA cleavage by benzoquinoquinoxaline-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid conjugates.

The formation of triple-helical structures of DNA is based on sequence-specific recognition of oligopyrimidine.oligopurine stretches of double-helical DNA. Triple-helical structures can be stabilized by DNA-binding ligands.