Optical probe for quadruplex DNA

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Encapsulated Pt-based probe for DNA imaging

We report on a Pt complex that targets quadruplex DNA selectively and switches-on its emission upon binding (Chem Eur J, 2012, 18,16277)

A new cyclometalled platinum(II) complex with a substituted phenanthroline ligand is reported. The resulting complex has high in vitro affinity for quadruplex DNA and upon binding its emission is switched-on. The complex can be easily delivered to the cell by using a metallo-cage as a carrier. We show by confocal microscopy that the complex is released inside the cell, penetrates the nucleus and localises in the nucleoli. Interestingly, co-staining experiments showed that the complex does not co-localise with DAPI suggesting that it may be targeting non-canonical DNA structures. (Chem Eur J, 2012, Vol:18, Pages:16277-16282(publication doi)

Reporter

Prof. Ramon Vilar

Prof. Ramon Vilar
Department of Chemistry

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Contact details

Tel: +44 (0)20 7594 1967
Email: r.vilar@imperial.ac.uk

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