Non-covalent interactions with DNA

Abstract

Non-covalent binding of small molecules to DNA can take place in the grooves, which can involve sequence-specific recognition, by insertion between the stacked base-pairs (intercalation) or through the formation of triplexes or quadruplexes structures. In addition, electrostatic interactions with phosphate groups can also occur. DNA binders range from simple metals to supramolecular entities resulting from a self-assembly process between organic ligands and metallic cations. Interactions between DNA and synthetic small molecules can alter the structure and functions (replication and/or transcription) of nucleic acids and constitute the basis for their use as tools in molecular biology and as antitumor drugs.