Recognition and regulation of unique nucleic acid structures by small molecules.

DNA and RNA are both polymorphic. Depending on the sequences and environmental conditions, they could exist in a variety of secondary structures that play key roles in many biological processes. Recognition of these structures by small ligands is very important for the development of new drugs and new tools. In this article, we will focus on recent advances in the field of molecular recognition and regulation of small ligands with several unique nucleic acid structures, and we will also highlight some of their potential applications in medicinal chemistry and biotechnology.