Design and optimization of new peroxidase ribozymes based on RNA Mango constructs

DNA and RNA oligonucleotides that fold to form four-stranded structures (G-quadruplexes) are known to bind heme and such complexes to catalyze 1-electron (peroxidase-like) and 2-electron (peroxygenase-like) oxidation reactions. While successful in competing with protein peroxidase enzymes in this respect, G-quadruplex•heme complexes are currently not competitive with protein enzymes with regard to the enantioselectivity of the products generated. We will try to study, mutate, and develop existing complex RNA G-quadruplexes, the so-called “RNA Mango” molecules, which bind heme but provide a more complex, “enzyme active site-like” environment around the heme. These may thus be more promising reagents for giving enantioselective oxidation products from chosen substrates.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dipankar Sen

Student:

Partner:

Indian Institute of Technology Madras

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Simon Fraser University

Program: