Langmuir monolayers provide an effective strategy for studying molecular recognition of nucleobases using alkylated nucleotides

Author(s)

Moreira, Felipe Almeida ; Escobar, Jhon Fernando Berrio ; Giordani, Cristiano ; Caseli, Luciano

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: COLLOIDS AND SURFACES B-BIOINTERFACES; v. 244, p. 8-pg., 2024-08-08.

Abstract

Molecular Recognition in nucleotides is crucial for medicine, underpinning precise interactions in genetic replication and therapy. Alkylated nucleotides, in particular, play a key role in modifying DNA to inhibit cancer cell growth. In this study, we focused on an alkylated nucleotide, PNM2 (3 ',4 ',6'-O-tristearoyl uridine or uridine tri-stearate), to investigate the interaction between adenine molecules in the aqueous subphase and PNM2 Langmuir monolayers. Utilizing techniques such as tensiometry, Brewster angle microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, surface potential measurements, and dilatational surface rheology, we found compelling evidence of molecular Recognition between the polar head of the insoluble amphiphile (uridine) in the monolayer and adenine in the aqueous subphase, attributed to hydrogen bonding. These interactions significantly influenced the physicochemical properties of the air-water interface, including monolayer expansion upon molecular recognition, decreased dilatational modulus, increased tensiometric stability of the monolayer when compressed to relevant surface pressures, and decreased surface potential. These findings are noteworthy for drug development, providing crucial insights into the mechanisms of nucleotide interactions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/00850-6 - Development of nanostructured biosensors for the diagnosis of mental disorders biomarkers
• Grantee: Osvaldo Novais de Oliveira Junior
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/03736-7 - Nanostructured interfaces for the investigation of bioactive substances in cell membrane models and for the construction of optoelectronic devices
• Grantee: Luciano Caseli
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/13938-6 - Nanostructured materials based on alkylated nucleosides with anticancer properties incorporated in Langmuir and Langmuir-Blodgett films of lipids and luminescent probes
• Grantee: Luciano Caseli
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants