I-motif and quadruplex-based device that can control a protein release or bind and release small molecule to influence biological processes

To expand the function of DNA machines, we constructed a non-DNA-fuel machine based on the G-quadruplex and i-motif structures within the telomere DNA sequence. Depending on the binding or non-binding of the specified form, the DNA machine is able to bind or release the telomere-binding protein TRF 1, and to release small quadruplex-binding molecules to impede progress of the polymerase. This DNA machine, driven by pH change, does not accumulate duplex DNA waste products to poison the system. These new functions undertaken by structured nucleic acids open many opportunities to create and expand the further functions and use of DNA and RNA.

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