Left-handed Z-DNA

Claude E. Gagna, W. Clark Lambert

Research output: Contribution to specialist publicationArticle

Abstract

DNA molecules are not quiescent, but rather very dynamic and vibrant macromolecules. Alexander Rich discovered left-handed Z-DNA in 1979, but its acceptance by the scientific community has been slow. Z-DNA has been extensively characterized in vitro. Z-DNA exists in biological systems in a dynamic condition, rather than in a static state. Recent developments have helped further characterize its possible roles within eukaryotic cells. The discipline of bio-inorganic chemistry is playing a major role in the examination of the structure and function of Z-DNA. Chemists and molecular biologists are now working very closely together to produce more insights into the chemistry of different nucleic acids. Left-handed DNA is no longer considered to be an in vitro artifact. More members of the scientific community are beginning to speculate on possible roles for this nucleic acid.

Original languageEnglish
Pages25-28
Number of pages4
Volume79
No1
Specialist publicationChemist
StatePublished - Mar 2002
Externally publishedYes

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