A Fluorescent Anti-Cancer Agent, 3,6-bis(1-methyl-4-vinylpyridinium) Carbazole Diiodide, Stains G-Quadruplexes in Cells and Inhibits Tumor Growth.

Compelling evidence suggests that formation of guanine-quadruplex (G4) can protect the integrity of chromosome ends in eukaryotes, and regulate the activity of some gene promoters. In addition, G4 may be a novel therapeutic target. Thus, a number of ligands have been synthesized to stabilize G4.