Work

A review on point mutations via proton transfer in DNA base pairs in the absence and presence of electric fields

Year: 2024

Type: review

Abstract: This comprehensive review focuses on spontaneous mutations that may occur during DNA replication, the fundamental process responsible for transferring genetic information. In 1963, Löwdin postulated that these mutations are primarily a result of proton transfer reactions within the hydrogen-bonded DNA base pairs. The single and double proton transfer reactions within the base pairs in DNA result in zwitterions and rare tautomers, respectively. For persistent mutations, these products must be generated at high rates and should be thermodynamically stable. This review covers the proton transfer reactions studied experimentally and computationally. The review also examines the influence of externally applied electric fields on the thermodynamics and kinetics of proton transfer reactions within DNA base pairs, and their biological implications.

Source: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134051

Authors: Anju Choorakottayil Pushkaran, Alya A. Arabi

Institution: United Arab Emirates University

Language: English

Topic: DNA and Nucleic Acid Chemistry

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,260

Funders: Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Zayed Bin Sultan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University