Chemistry of Nucleic Acids: From Structure to Biological Interactions, Second Edition

Dear Colleagues,

Nucleic acids, primarily DNA and RNA, are versatile structures crucial for cellular function and regulation, as well as for genetic information storage and transmission. Beyond their well-known canonical structures, such as the double helix of DNA and the single-stranded form of RNA, these molecules exhibit a wide range of noncanonical conformations, including G-quadruplexes, i-motifs, and triplexes, which are essential for biological regulation and interaction with other biomolecules. 

The chemistry of nucleic acid structures can influence their biological activities and interactions with proteins, lipids, small molecules, and other nucleic acids. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing novel therapeutic approaches and gaining deeper insights into cellular processes.

In addition, nucleic acids can be therapeutic agents, which act as aptamers; thus, they can bind to high-affinity specific protein targets involved in the most important diseases.

This Special Issue of Molecules will include both regular articles and reviews, and it aims to explore the latest advancements in the chemical understanding of nucleic acids, from their intrinsic structural features to their dynamic interactions with other biomolecules. This Special Issue will focus on both canonical and noncanonical nucleic acid structures, highlighting their roles in cellular processes and therapeutic applications.

Contributions dealing with nucleic acid structure, stability, and interactions with other biomolecules are of great relevance to this Special Issue. Studies concerning nucleic acids with potential applications in therapy, diagnostics, and analytics are particularly welcome. Contributions focused on the molecular mechanisms that govern nucleic acid folding, stability, and recognition will also be highly appreciated.

Topics of interest for this Special Issue include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The chemistry of nucleic acids;
• The synthesis/improvement of nucleic acid structures;
• Physicochemical studies, thermodynamics, and kinetics of nucleic acids;
• Aptamers and their functional role in aptamer-related diseases;
• Interactions of nucleic acid structures with other components, ranging from small molecules to large proteins;
• Nucleic acids in the development of drug delivery systems.

Dr. Claudia Riccardi
Dr. Federica D'Aria
Guest Editors

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