A novel small molecule that alters shelterin integrity and triggers a DNA-damage response at telomeres.

Abstract:: We describe a novel synthetic small molecule which shows an unprecedented stabilization of the human telomeric G-quadruplex with high selectivity relative to double-stranded DNA. We report that this compound can be used in vitro to inhibit telomerase activity and to uncap human POT1 (protection of telomeres 1) from the telomeric G-overhang. We also show that the small molecule G-quadruplex binder induces a partial alteration of shelterin through POT1 uncapping from telomeres in human HT1080 cancer cells and the presence of gammaH2AX foci colocalized at telomeres.

Authors:: R Rodriguez, S Müller, JA Yeoman, C Trentesaux, J-F Riou, S Balasubramanian

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