Abstract
Problem statement: In the present study, FT Raman spectroscopy had been used to extend our knowledge about Magnesium ion - DNA interactions at various volume ratios (1:50, 1:20, 1:10 and 1:5). Approach: The analysis of FT Raman data supported the existence of structural specificities in the interaction and also the stability of DNA secondary structure. Results: Results from the Raman spectra clearly indicate that the interaction of Magnesium ion with DNA is mainly through the phosphate groups of DNA with negligible change of the B-conformation of DNA at all the volume ratios studied. For example, band at 1079 cm-1 is assigned to the symmetrical stretching vibration of the nucleic acid phosphodioxy (PO-2) group. This band in the order 1079→ 1075→ 1070→ 1066→ 1063 cm-1 at all Magnesium ion DNA concentrations studied. Similarly, Raman band at 845 cm-1 due to antisymmetrical phosphodiester (O-P-O) stretching of DNA. Conclusion: Magnesium ion interaction with the DNA phosphate is weak in comparison to interactions with the bases. On the other hand, the Raman signature of B-DNA is largely unperturbed by magnesium ion, suggesting much weaker interactions.
Highlights
Backbone phosphate groups may play role in enhancing the lifetime of the open state of the
Metal ions are essential for the biological activity of nucleic acids, as well as the characteristics that can prove harmful, result from the interaction of metals to nucleic acids
The objective of the present study is to characterize the structural changes that DNA undergoes in the presence of Magnesium ions
Summary
Backbone phosphate groups may play role in enhancing the lifetime of the open state of the. Metal ions are essential for the biological activity of nucleic acids, as well as the characteristics that can prove harmful, result from the interaction of metals to nucleic acids. It is for this reason that studies of the effects of metal interaction in nucleic acids are very much important. Binding of Magnesium ions to the DNA base pairs, accelerating the regulatory process of genetic information transfer. The alkaline earth metals play the role of stabilizing the double helix by neutralization of the negative changes on the phosphate groups. Extreme stabilization by metal ions can lead to rather adverse result, i.e., the mis-pairing of bases.
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