Methylation Effects on Nucleic Acid Conformations

摘要

Chemical modification of nucleic acids by alkylating agents is investigated. It is noted that methylation effects on structure may be substantial, notably in instances where charge redistribution and/or electrostatic charges are altered. This aspect is explored in some detail using dinucleoside monophosphates as simple models. Of specific interest is the effect of N1 methylation in purines on base stacking and overall conformation. Since purine-rich regions of RNA and DNA are presumptive nucleating sites for ordered stacked structures, introduction of positive charges into the base ring by methylating agents can have a profound influence on total biopolymer structure. (ERA citation 03:053213)