Dual recognition drives site-directed G-quadruplex stabilization: Oligonucleotide design in G4 ligand-oligonucleotide conjugates

Abstract

G-quadruplex (G4) DNA structures are increasingly recognized for their roles in transcriptional regulation and genome stability, making them attractive therapeutic targets. Selective recognition of individual G4s remains challenging due to the high structural similarity among G4 motifs. G4 Ligand-Oligonucleotides conjugates (GL-Os) address this challenge by combining small-molecule G4 ligands with the sequence specificity of oligonucleotides, targeting sequences flanking the intended G4 target. Here, we systematically investigate how oligonucleotide length, backbone composition, and sequence complementarity govern GL-O binding, selectivity, and G4 stabilization. We show that effective G4 recognition depends on the interdependence between oligonucleotide hybridization and G4 ligand binding, such that both elements cooperatively reinforce complex stability and site specificity. Longer oligonucleotides promote more stable complexes and stronger G4 stabilization, whereas central mismatches disrupt this dual-recognition mechanism. Replacement of DNA with peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) enhances binding strength, thermal stability, and metabolic stability. Importantly, ligand conjugation redirects PNA oligonucleotides from nonspecific polymerase stalling toward selective G4 stabilization. Finally, we demonstrate receptor-mediated cellular uptake of modified GL-Os, supporting the feasibility of cellular delivery while highlighting remaining delivery barriers. Together, these findings show the molecular design principles governing GL-O behavior and provide a foundation for the future development and evaluation of selective G4-targeting therapeutics.