Reversal of the Z- to B-Conformation of Poly(dA-dT)•Poly(dA-dT) Induced by Netropsin and Distamycin A

Abstract Poly(dA-dT)•poly(dA-dT) which adopts the Z-form at 5 M NaCl in presence of 95 mM Ni2+ions is reversed to the B-conformation by the nonintercalating drugs netropsin (Nt) and distamycin A (Dst). The drug-induced reversal from the Z-to B-form of poly(dA- dT)•poly(dA-dT) is evidenced by CD spectral changes at characteristic wavelengths around 295 nm and 248 nm. The drug-induced conformational transition is accompanied by a slow kinetic process. The results suggest the preference of these AT-specific drugs for the B-form and the inability of Nt and Dst to form a stable complex with the Z-form of poly(dA-dT)•poly(dA-dT).