Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Shiliang He, Mengmeng Liu, Fangfei Yin, Jiangbo Liu, Zhilei Ge, Fan Li, Min Li, Jiye Shi, Lihua Wang, Xiuhai Mao, Xiaolei Zuo, Qian Li
Summary: The response sensitivity of a molecular sensor depends on the folding cooperativity of its responsive module. This can be enhanced through preorganization, as demonstrated with an H+-responsive dimeric DNA i-motif, to create robust intracellular pH sensors with high response sensitivity.
CHEMICAL COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yuwei Hu, Yujie Ke, Itamar Willner
Summary: A cascaded DNA hydrogel governed by pH-configurable A-motif, i-motif, and T·A-T triplex configurations is presented. Different pH conditions dictate the formation and stability of the hydrogel through the protonation and deprotonation of adenine and cytosine residues. This study advances the development of smart hydrogels capable of adapting to various environmental conditions by introducing multiple pH-responsiveness.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Yuwei Hu, Jackie Y. Ying
Summary: Smart DNA hydrogels containing dynamic reconfigurable DNA crosslinking units exhibit sol-gel transition, shape memory, self-healing, sensing, cargo encapsulation, and delivery. They are designed to respond to external stimuli such as light, pH, ions, fuel strands, thermal triggers, chemical, and biocatalytic reactions for various applications in material science, chemistry, and biomedicine. This review focuses on the recent advances in pH-sensitive nucleic acid structures, particularly A-motif, i-motif, and triplex, for pH-responsive DNA hydrogels. The review discusses the structural details of pH-triggered A-motif, i-motif, and triplex configurations as the foundation for constructing pH-responsive DNA hydrogels, as well as the physicochemical properties and applications of these hydrogels in shape modulation, self-healing, drug release, sensing, therapy, and soft matter.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiaoling Huang, Zhuoyan Zhu, Zheng Luo, Weihang Zhao, Yufeng Wang, Yiwen Shi, Xin Su
Summary: The stability of colloids can be irreversibly destroyed by the addition of salt, but can be reversibly switched by CO2 stimulus. This study provides a pathway for developing colloids with reversible stability in response to CO2 stimulation.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Alexander S. Minasyan, Srinivas Chakravarthy, Suchitra Vardelly, Mark Joseph, Evgueni E. Nesterov, Irina V. Nesterova
Summary: This study presents a new approach to enable well-defined conformational transitions in DNA molecular devices. By developing tools for precise folding of multiple DNA quadruplexes within the same oligonucleotide strand, the research demonstrates the facilitation of targeted folding topology by guiding elements. The use of thermodynamic techniques, SEC, SAXS, and electron density maps provides comprehensive characterization of folding/unfolding transitions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Golam Mustafa, Prabesh Gyawali, Jacob A. Taylor, Parastoo Maleki, Marlon V. Nunez, Michael C. Guntrum, Sajad Shiekh, Hamza Balci
Summary: This paper presents a collection of single molecule studies on the i-motif structure formed by the human telomeric sequence. The i-motif structure has recently gained attention as a physiologically relevant structure and a pH sensor. The study establishes single molecule Forster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) as a tool to investigate the i-motif under different pH and ionic conditions, revealing the pH and salt dependence of i-motif formation and capturing the intermediate folding states in real time. Furthermore, the i-motif is demonstrated to be a potential in-situ pH sensor.
FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR BIOSCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biophysics
Anton Turaev, Ekaterina A. Isaakova, Vjacheslav V. Severov, Alexandra N. Bogomazova, Timofei S. Zatsepin, Makar Sardushkin, Andrey Aralov, Maria A. Lagarkova, Galina E. Pozmogova, Anna M. Varizhuk
Summary: The design of robust sensors for measuring intracellular pH based on native DNA i-motifs offers a sensitive and fast-response approach without the need for additional modules. This 'genome-inspired' design can be used to monitor proton dynamics in the nucleus, suggesting it is a productive approach for the development of biocompatible molecular tools.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2021)
Article
Spectroscopy
Tong Yang, Shuzhen Peng, Ruidi Zeng, Qiuda Xu, Xiong Zheng, Dandan Wang, Xiaoshun Zhou, Yong Shao
Summary: This study developed a visible light-driven DNAzyme based on human telomeric i-motifs, using hypericin as the cofactor and dissolved oxygen as the oxidant source. The DNAzyme has broad applications and its catalytic performance can be improved using a long-lived mediator.
SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART A-MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Mingpan Cheng, Dehui Qiu, Liezel Tamon, Eva Istvankova, Pavlina Viskova, Samir Amrane, Aurore Guedin, Jielin Chen, Laurent Lacroix, Huangxian Ju, Lukas Trantirek, Aleksandr B. Sahakyan, Jun Zhou, Jean-Louis Mergny
Summary: Recent studies have shown that i-DNA, a four-stranded cytosine-rich DNA known as the i-motif, is formed in vivo. This study tested 271 different sequences and found that i-DNA stability is nearly independent on total spacer length, with the central spacer playing a special role in stability. The study also revealed that stability depends on the length of the C-tracts at both acidic and neutral pHs.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Li Zou, Chuoying Mai, Mengyan Li, Yufen Lai
Summary: In this study, a pH-responsive gold nanoparticle assembly (RGA) assisted by i-motif DNA was developed for highly sensitive and reversible response to pH changes between 6.20 and 7.40. The acidic pH triggers disassembly of RGA, changing the color from blue-purple to red, allowing pH estimation by naked-eye determination or UVevis spectroscopy. Furthermore, the RGA can detect slight pH fluctuations in catalytic reactions, providing a new strategy for on-site and real-time pH sensing.
ANALYTICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Huihui Yang, Jun Chen, Yuling Liang, Yanfei Zhang, Wen Yin, Yuzhi Xu, Si-Yang Liu, Zong Dai, Xiaoyong Zou
Summary: This study presents a novel MOFC-i strategy for sensitive and dynamic imaging of cell surface pH using optimized pH probes and microporous MOF shell. The method can distinguish different metabolic behaviors of cancer cells and normal cells, and assess drug effects on cell surface pH or metabolism.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesca Greco, Maria Marzano, Andrea Patrizia Falanga, Monica Terracciano, Gennaro Piccialli, Giovanni Nicola Roviello, Stefano D'Errico, Nicola Borbone, Giorgia Oliviero
Summary: This study reports the design of structurally modified CROs, called DEL-CROs, which can form more stable i-motif structures compared to unmodified CROs. This opens up possibilities for developing pH-switchable nanocarriers and aptamers based on DEL-CROs.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Yanhui Tao, Yuwei Wang, Shengnan Hu, David James Young, Chengrong Lu, Hong-Xi Li, Zhi-Gang Ren
Summary: The trinuclear complex [Au2Ag(dppmaphen)(2)(CN)(2)]PF6 emits light when exposed to low molecular weight alcohols, likely due to interactions between the analyte and the -PPh2 group. The photoluminescence can be quenched by removing or replacing the analyte, leading to a visible, rapid, and recyclable on/off switching effect.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Reham Ali, Siwar Ghannay, Sabri Messaoudi, Fahad M. Alminderej, Kaiss Aouadi, Sayed M. Saleh
Summary: A new optical sensor based on IXZD molecule-doped sensor film was developed for tracing Hg(II) ions, with a significantly low limit of detection and effective binding affinity to mercury ions. The emission intensity enhancement and 1:1 molar ratio in the binding process were observed, supported by theoretical calculations of Hg(II)-IXZD structures and electronic properties.
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Hung-Chi Chen, Bo-Wei Huang
Summary: The article introduces an integrated drive for a three-phase switched reluctance motor (SRM), which integrates a bidirectional dc/dc converter powered by a battery for bidirectional power transfer without the need for relay reconfiguration or additional charging/discharging units and circuit components. Only one physical current sensor is utilized to provide all current signals for SRM driving and grid-to-vehicle/vehicle-to-grid functions at a standstill. The proposed integrated drive and its control are successfully demonstrated through the results provided.
IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON POWER ELECTRONICS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ling Li, Huan Li, Lin Shi, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: The research on antioxidant biomimetic enzymes has gained attention due to their potential in combating oxidative stress-related diseases. In this study, Sn-metallized porphyrins were found to be effective SOD mimics, exhibiting high catalytic activity and stability. The Sn-porphyrin-based nanozymes could be a promising alternative to natural SODs in clinical treatments.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Jiao Zheng, Qiwei Wang, Lin Shi, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: This study presents a novel target delivery system that utilizes the 2D-to-3D transformation of nucleic acid nano vehicles to enhance cellular internalization and enable live-cell mRNA imaging. This system holds potential for precise disease treatment.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yi Du, Qiwei Wang, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: DNA-assembled multiaptamer systems offer a promising approach for targeted delivery of nucleic acid cargoes. In this study, a G-quadruplex-proximized aptamer system was engineered for efficient transmembrane delivery of siRNA, showing great potential for precise anticancer therapy.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Lin Shi, Chengbin Liu, Han Wang, Jiao Zheng, Qiwei Wang, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: This study presents a fast and ultrasensitive miRNA detection method using a direct electrochemiluminescence sensing strategy, which avoids time-consuming signal amplification steps. The method enables the detection of AMI-related miRNA in human serum within 30 minutes and is of great significance for clinical AMI diagnosis.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Chang Xu, Yichun Zhou, Lili Shi, Longjiu Cheng
Summary: Probing the nature of electronic stability for ligand-protected gold clusters is important in gold chemistry. A recent synthesis of a thermally stable Au36Ag2(SR)(18) nanocluster revealed its electronic stability through a superatomic three-center bond, expanding the understanding of superatomic bonding.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dan Li, Chen Yan, Qinqin Yuan, Lili Shi, Longjiu Cheng
Summary: This study reveals the aromaticity of C13H9+/0/- using a two-dimensional superatomic-molecule theory, and shows that they can adjust their pi electron structures to achieve shell-closure through superatomic lone pairs and covalent bonds. C13H9+/0/- are representatives of adaptive aromaticity in the 2D superatomic-molecule system. The research also investigates the evolution of 2D periodic materials by studying the similar family of C6H3N7, C18H6N22 and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) crystals, enriching the field of 2D superatomic bonding chemistry and providing a useful strategy for designing new 2D functional nanostructured materials.
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY CHEMICAL PHYSICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Shiyang Qu, Lin Shi, Huan Li, Tao Li
Summary: The research team used silicon nanoparticles to modify gold nanoparticles as label-free SNAzymes for nucleic acid detection. They found that SiO2 cores can efficiently adsorb various G4 sequences and successfully constructed a highly sensitive chemiluminescence nanoprobe. Through this method, they achieved ultrahigh sensitive chemiluminescence detection of AMI-related nucleic acids.
SENSORS & DIAGNOSTICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Lin Shi, Haiying Cai, Han Wang, Qiwei Wang, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: In this study, a novel method based on the FNA nanoplatform is proposed for the effective capture of exosomes and direct detection of internal miRNAs. The results show that miR-21 has a negative regulatory role in apoptosis.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Huan Li, Qiwei Wang, Lili Shi, Tao Li
Summary: This study developed a fluorescent probe based on tetraazacycle for sensitive detection of endogenous Hcy in AMI patients' serum and cardiomyocytes. The levels of Hcy in human circulating blood were statistically analyzed, showing a significant difference between AMI patients and healthy participants. Comparison of Hcy expression levels in cardiomyocytes and other tissue cells revealed a lower level of endogenous Hcy in cardiomyocytes.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Haoran Wang, Panpan Wu, Zhenyu Wu, Lili Shi, Longjiu Cheng
Summary: In this study, a comparative analysis was conducted on SiF4 and other molecules in terms of bond length and energy, molecular orbitals, and adaptive natural density partitioning (AdNDP) analysis, revealing that the high thermal stability of SiF4 and the short Si-F bond length are mainly attributed to the presence of five 5c-2c bonds, called synergistic back-donation (SBD) bonds, along with the Si-F sigma bonds and the eighteen-electron rule.
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY CHEMICAL PHYSICS
(2022)