The interactions between a small molecule and G-quadruplexes are visualized by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy

• DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9178
• Publication Date: 2015-09-09T09:54:17Z
• Authors: Arun Shivalingam; M. Angeles Izquierdo; Alix Le Marois; Aurimas Vyšniauskas; Klaus Suhling; Marina K. Kuimova; Ramon Vilar
• Keywords: G-quadruplex; Fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy

Abstract Guanine-rich oligonucleotides can fold into quadruple-stranded helical structures known as G-quadruplexes. Mounting experimental evidence has gathered suggesting that these non-canonical nucleic acid form in vivo and play essential biological roles. However, to date, there are no small-molecule optical probes image G-quadruplexes live cells. Herein, we report the design development of a small fluorescent molecule, which be used an probe for We demonstrate fluorescence lifetime this new changes considerably upon interaction with different topologies. Specifically, longer lifetimes observed vitro than double- single-stranded acids. Cellular studies confirm molecule is cell permeable, low cytotoxicity localizes primarily nucleus. Furthermore, using imaging microscopy, live-cell suggests study molecules .