G4 DNA in ras genes and its potential in cancer therapy

Publication date: Available online 4 February 2016
Source:Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms
Author(s): Susanna Cogoi, Luigi E. Xodo
It is now well established that in the human genome the canonical double helix coexists with folded G-quadruplex structures that are known to have important biological functions. In this review we summarize the current knowledge on quadruplex formation in the promoters of the ras genes that are mutated in about 30% of all human cancers. We describe the nuclear proteins that recognize these unusual DNA structures and discuss their function in transcription. We also examine the formation of G-quadruplexes in the 5′-untranslated region of the ras transcripts and conclude this review by reporting strategies that use either ras G-quadruplexes or proteins recognizing the ras G-quadruplexes as targets of anticancer small molecules.



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