Since luminescence quenching by long range electron transfer (ET) is mediated by the DNA 'pi- stack' established by the aromatic stacked base pairs, a new methodology using luminescence in solution becomes available to probe perturbations to and structure of the DNA pi-stack. Studies on DNA-mediated ET make use of the luminescent properties of intercalated [Ru(phen')2dppz)2+, by studying the rate of luminescence decay in the presence of the intercalated [Rh(phi)2phen')3+ complex. However, the factors that modulate ET remain unclear. In an effort to gain insight into the role that DNA plays as the transfer medium, studies investigating the effect on the rate of ET upon introducing site specific mismatches, bends or lesions to the middle of a Ru-DNA/DNA-Rh duplex will be undertaken. These perturbations of the DNA pi-way will be probed through electron transfer luminescence quenching. The change in luminescent characteristics of ruthenium intercalated DNA after introduction of these perturbations provides insight into the structure and dynamics of the double helix.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
1F32GM017650-01
Application #
2172680
Study Section
Metallobiochemistry Study Section (BMT)
Project Start
1996-01-14
Project End
Budget Start
1995-07-15
Budget End
1996-07-14
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1995
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
California Institute of Technology
Department
Chemistry
Type
Schools of Engineering
DUNS #
078731668
City
Pasadena
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
91125