Complexes of mismatched and complementary DNA with minor groove binders. Structures at nucleotide resolution via an improved hydroxyl radical cleavage methodology

► An improved hydroxyl radical cleavage protocol has been developed. ► The structures of AC and CC mismatches have been investigated by the new protocol. ► The structures of minor groove binder-DNA complexes have also been investigated. ► The cleavage results are consistent with predictions from crystal structures. ► The presence of an AC or CC mismatch has been found to alter minor groove binding.