Breakthrough Discovery: Unveiling Alternative DNA Structures to Revolutionize Diabetes Treatment

A groundbreaking study led by University College London (UCL) researchers has revealed the crystal structure of an alternative DNA configuration within the insulin gene, paving the way for targeted diabetes treatments.

Unraveling the Mystery of i-Motif DNA

The research team focused on i-motif DNA, characterized by an interlocking structure resembling a knot. This alternative DNA shape was only confirmed to exist in living human cells in 2018.

Key Findings:

1. Crystal Structure Revealed: The first crystal structure of i-motif DNA, enabling researchers to understand its shape and interactions.
2. Sequence Variants: Different DNA sequences fold into distinct shapes, affecting insulin gene function.
3. Implications for Diabetes: Alternative DNA structures may influence insulin regulation, potentially leading to diabetes.

Advancements in DNA Crystallization

The team employed advanced crystallography techniques to concentrate DNA solutions, allowing crystals to form. X-ray crystallography then revealed the structure.

Implications for Diabetes Treatment and Drug Design

This breakthrough:

1. Guides Future Research: Understanding DNA shapes can inform diabetes treatment development.
2. Enables Rational Design: Knowing the 3D shape enables computational-based drug discovery and molecule design.
3. Opens New Avenues: Targeting i-motifs from the insulin gene could lead to innovative treatments.

Expert Insights

“Our work shows that certain DNA sequences have special interactions helping them form alternative structures.” – Dr. Zoë Waller, Co-lead Author

Reference

“Structural insights into i-motif DNA structures in sequences from the insulin-linked polymorphic region” (Nature Communications, 2024)

Funding

Diabetes UK

UCL School of Pharmacy’s Legacy

A pioneering institution in characterizing alternative DNA structures, including the first crystal structure of G-quadruplex DNA (2011) and human telomere junctions (2018).

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