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Unveiling Berenil's Binding Preferences on Plasmid DNA: Insights from pbr322

Dr. Elena V. Ricci , Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Milan, Italy
Dr. Arunesh Patel , Laboratory of Genetic Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India

Abstract

Berenil, a well-established trypanocidal agent, has long been recognized for its selective activity against extranuclear DNA and its characteristic minor groove binding to the DNA helix. This study aimed to precisely identify the preferred target sites of Berenil within the widely utilized bacterial plasmid pBR322, extending prior observations that demonstrated its inhibitory effects on DNA replication in plasmids rich in poly(dA)poly(dT) sequences. By employing a comprehensive array of molecular biology techniques, including meticulous plasmid DNA isolation, precise restriction enzyme digestion, and detailed analysis of DNA conformational changes, we sought to delineate the specific regions of pBR322 that exhibit preferential and strong binding affinity for Berenil. Understanding these precise binding preferences is paramount for deciphering the drug's intricate mechanism of action and holds significant implications for the rational design of new, sequence-specific therapeutic agents.

Keywords

Berenil, plasmid DNA, DNA binding

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Dr. Elena V. Ricci, & Dr. Arunesh Patel. (2025). Unveiling Berenil’s Binding Preferences on Plasmid DNA: Insights from pbr322. International Journal of Medical Science and Public Health Research, 6(08), 1–5. Retrieved from https://www.ijmsphr.com/index.php/ijmsphr/article/view/205