Ligand Binding to DNA and RNA, 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

DNA plays a central role in biomedical research and the development of advanced therapeutic strategies, including personalized medicine. In parallel, RNA has emerged as an important molecular target, expanding the scope of nucleic acid-based diagnostics and therapies. Small organic molecules capable of forming noncovalent supramolecular complexes with DNA or RNA provide versatile tools for modulating essential cellular processes through selective molecular recognition.

This Special Issue aims to present recent advances in the design, molecular recognition and biological evaluation of small molecules targeting DNA and RNA, with a particular focus on theranostic applications and photodynamic therapy. Emphasis is placed on nucleic-acid-binding photosensitizers that enable the light-controlled generation of reactive oxygen species and localized cytotoxicity, as well as on understanding binding modes, selectivity and cytotoxic effects relevant to minimally invasive therapeutic strategies. The topic is fully aligned with the journal’s scope in molecular recognition, chemical biology and functional biomolecular systems.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Design and synthesis of DNA- and RNA-targeting small molecules
• Supramolecular recognition and binding modes of nucleic acids
• Spectroscopic and imaging-based nucleic acid sensing
• Photodynamic therapy and light-activated nucleic-acid targeting
• Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake and biological evaluation of theranostic agents
• Sequence- and structure-selective recognition of nucleic acids

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

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Dr. Dijana Pavlović Saftić
Dr. Marijana Radić Stojković
Guest Editors

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