CHED 1590 |
| The design and synthesis of biomimetic model systems for DNA and RNA, and the study of their properties both in vitro and in living cells, are described. The development of new molecules that reproduce some of DNA's and RNA's functions can lead to new basic information about the natural mechanisms involving nucleic acids, and can lead to new biological tools and biomedically useful compounds. Our approach to mimicry of nucleic acids involves replacement of the heterocyclic bases, leaving the phosphodiester backbone intact. We have found that some of these base replacements work surprisingly well in biochemical pathways, and a few function at almost natural levels of efficiency in living cells. Two specific biological issues will be addressed. The first is how DNA is accurately replicated, and the second is how short interfering RNAs recognize their cellular targets. Our experiments have added new insights into these basic biological questions. |
|
Exploring and Exploiting Nature with Biomimetics
8:30 AM-11:45 AM, Tuesday, March 27, 2007 McCormick Place North -- Room N230A, Level 2, Oral
Division of Chemical Education |