Light-controlled thrombin catalysis and clot formation using a photoswitchable G-quadruplex DNA aptamer

Chem Commun (Camb). 2019 May 9;55(39):5627-5630. doi: 10.1039/c9cc01540j.

Abstract

The reversible photocontrol of an enzyme governing blood coagulation is demonstrated. The thrombin binding aptamer (TBA), was rendered photochromic by modification with two anthracene groups. Light-triggered anthracene photodimerisation distorts its structure, inhibiting binding of the enzyme thrombin, which in turn triggers catalysis and the resulting clotting process.

MeSH terms

  • Anthracenes / chemistry
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide / chemistry
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide / metabolism*
  • Biocatalysis
  • Blood Coagulation
  • Circular Dichroism
  • Dimerization
  • G-Quadruplexes*
  • Humans
  • Protein Binding
  • Temperature
  • Thrombin / chemistry
  • Thrombin / metabolism*
  • Ultraviolet Rays*

Substances

  • Anthracenes
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide
  • thrombin aptamer
  • Thrombin
  • anthracene