DNA triplex-based fluorescence turn-on sensors for adenosine using a fluorescent molecular rotor 5-(3-methylbenzofuran-2-yl) deoxyuridine

Abstract

Fluorescence turn-on sensors for adenosine were developed using DNA triplexes modified with a fluorescent molecular rotor 5-(3-methylbenzofuran-2-yl)deoxyuridine (dU^MBF) and abasic sites. Binding of adenosine to the abasic site next to the dU^MBF changed the microenvironment and conformation (from the twisted to planar state) of dU^MBF and enhanced the fluorescence. Adenosine could be selectively detected over other nucleosides and adenosine phosphates. The binding of adenosine was confirmed by UV-thermal melting experiments. Further, the conformational changes of dU^MBF from the twisted to coplanar state upon binding of adenosine was supported by MD simulations.