Mechanistic Studies of Nucleic Acid Damage and Their Applications.

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The research program described in this proposal relies largely on organic chemistry to improve our understanding of how nucleic acids are oxidatively damaged, a fundamentally important biomedical research topic. Nucleic acid oxidation plays important roles in human disease and is an important tool in biotechnology. It is involved in the etiology of cancer, but is also the source of the cytotoxicity of g-radiolysis and many chemotherapeutics used to treat this complex disease. DNA damage also plays a role in aging and a variety of other ailments, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, RNA oxidation has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Nucleic acid oxidation is also a valuable tool for detecting biopolymer structure, noncovalent interactions between molecules, and the kinetics of RNA folding. Our goal is to undertake fundamental research to develop a detailed understanding of how nucleic acids are oxidatively damaged, and to apply the knowledge gained in these investigations to the design of research tools and possible therapeutic agents. Our general approach utilizes organic synthesis to independently generate reactive intermediates that are involved in nucleic acid damage. This method simplifies studies on nucleic acid damage by controlling which reactive intermediates are produced and where they are generated. We will use this approach to build upon our own related research and be the first to study how DNA is damaged in nucleosomes (Aim 2). We will also address how one of the most important DNA lesions, OxodG, is produced (Aim 1). Building upon observations made during the previous funding period, we will explore the role of nucleobase radicals in RNA oxidation and determine whether this can be used to learn more about its structure in hydroxyl radical (OH7) cleavage experiments (Aim 3). Finally, Aim 4 builds upon our proof of principle experiments to develop a family of nucleotide analogues that are radiosensitizing agents and form interstrand cross-links in DNA selectively under hypoxic conditions. In summary, the project combines organic chemistry and biochemistry to increase our understanding of fundamentally important chemical processes that occur in living organisms.