- The team of researchers created a fluorescent molecule then had it interact with quadruplex DNA while studying the interactions using a powerful microscope. The florescent molecule glowed more intensely when attached to DNA, which helped highlight the difference between quadruplexes and normal DNA.
- Quadruplexes usually form when guanine-rich DNA folds over onto itself. Some researchers believe that quadruplexes are deeply involved in switching genes on and off, which would mean it would be a key to treating diseases like cancer.
- Several quadruplex structures have been found in human genes but scientists still don't know exactly what they do. The hope is that this discovery is a "game-changer" for quadruplex-related research.
A fluorescent molecule highlights "quadruplex" DNA with four strands
9. 9. 15 by Kif Leswing