CARB 5 |
| The search for nucleic acid analogs with improved properties for in vitro and in vivo applications as potential antisense, antigene, aptamer, ribozyme, and, more recently, siRNA agents has generated a large number of nucleic acids with chemically modified carbohydrate moieties. Structural studies of nucleic acid analogs and comparisons with the structures of native DNA and RNA molecules have yielded detailed information about the physical and chemical properties of the former, such as the stability of self-pairing and cross-pairing (i.e. RNA affinity), pairing specificity, nuclease resistance, and cellular uptake. Nucleic acid analogs also remain the focus of investigations that seek answers to basic questions regarding the origin (nucleic acid etiology) and uniqueness of DNA and RNA. For example, the recent structure of homo-DNA that features 2',3'-dideoxy-glucopyranoses in its backbone has provided a partial rationalization of nature's preference for pentose over hexose in the genetic system. Supported by NIH grant R01 GM055237. |
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Wolfrom/Isbell/New Investigator Award Symposium
8:30 AM-11:50 AM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 BCEC -- 162B, Oral
Division of Carbohydrate Chemistry |