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Topology-Informed Design of Circularly Locked DNAzymes Enables Orthogonally Controlled Gene Regulation

delete2026-01-13
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PRE
AI
F
Fangzhi Yu *
S
Siqi Zhang
H
Huanyu Tao
H
Haozhe Jin
Y
Yuliang Zhao
黄胜友 (Sheng‐You Huang) *
L
Lele Li *
DOI:10.1021/jacs.5c18154delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
RNA-cleaving DNAzymes represent promising, protein-independent catalysts for gene silencing; yet achieving precise control over their activity remains a major challenge for biomedical applications. Here, we identify a cyclization-induced, size-dependent topological barrier that suppresses substrate binding, catalytic-core folding, and substrate cleavage of DNAzymes. Leveraging these underlying insights, we establish a modular strategy for the orthogonal control of DNAzyme activity via topological regulation. Specifically, we engineer catalytically inactive, circular DNAzyme precursors (termed circularly locked DNAzymes) bearing a cleavable linker and demonstrate that their substrate-cleavage activity can be reactivated through stimulus-responsive circular-to-linear switching. This topology-based design is broadly adaptable to diverse triggers (e.g., light, reductants, or enzymes), offering a simple and versatile route for conditional DNAzyme activation. Moreover, circularly locked DNAzymes exhibit enhanced biostability and maintain prolonged dormancy until on-demand activation, enabling precise, spatiotemporal control for potential therapeutic applications.

Journal

Journal of the American Chemical Society cover
Journal of the American Chemical Society
IF:
15.6
Papers:
20.0W
Citations:
60.2W

Organization

J
Jinan University
Scholars:
2.4K
Papers: 729
Citations: 122
H
Huazhong University of Science and Technology
Scholars:
4.5K
Papers: 1.4K
Citations: 65
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