CaltechTHESIS
  A Caltech Library Service

Structural Variations on the Turn Unit of DNA-Binding Hairpin Py-Im Polyamides

Citation

Farkas, Michelle Elizabeth (2010) Structural Variations on the Turn Unit of DNA-Binding Hairpin Py-Im Polyamides. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/RVY7-BR84. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:10192009-145249345

This is the latest version of this item.

Abstract

Modulation of gene expression by small molecules is a challenge in the field of chemical biology. Hairpin pyrrole-imidazole polyamides are a class of programmable small molecules that bind to the minor groove of DNA, and have been shown to inhibit gene expression by interfering with transcription factor-DNA interfaces. When considering the biological implications of these molecules, improvement of sequence-specificities and binding affinities is of great interest. The work described herein focuses on modifications to the turn sub-unit of hairpin polyamides, and subsequent effects on the biophysical and biological characteristics of these molecules. The substitution of a γ-2,4-diaminobutyric acid with an α-2,4-diaminobutyric acid hairpin turn moiety resulted in greater selectivity, and diminished reactivity for polyamide-alkylator conjugates. These molecules have been utilized in generating site-specific damage in histone H4 genes in cancer cells. Employment of 3,4-diaminobutyric acid in the turn unit has resulted in increased DNA affinities for polyamides targeting particular sequences. These molecules are also promising in their abilities to tolerate modifications that improve cellular uptake but would otherwise severely diminish binding.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:polyamides, small-molecule gene regulation
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Major Option:Chemistry
Awards:Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) Dissertation Award, 2008.
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Dervan, Peter B.
Thesis Committee:
  • Dougherty, Dennis A. (chair)
  • Campbell, Judith L.
  • Stoltz, Brian M.
  • Dervan, Peter B.
Defense Date:4 September 2009
Record Number:CaltechTHESIS:10192009-145249345
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:10192009-145249345
DOI:10.7907/RVY7-BR84
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:5340
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Michelle Farkas
Deposited On:05 Mar 2010 21:05
Last Modified:08 Nov 2019 18:07

Available Versions of this Item

  • Structural Variations on the Turn Unit of DNA-Binding Hairpin Py-Im Polyamides. (deposited 05 Mar 2010 21:05) [Currently Displayed]

Thesis Files

[img]
Preview
PDF - Final Version
See Usage Policy.

36MB

Repository Staff Only: item control page