Biopolym. Cell. 2026; 42(1):32-43.
Structure and Function of Biopolymers
Studying the interaction between pentameric oligonucleotides and recombinant signaling proteins and receptors
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine
150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv, Ukraine, 03143
Abstract
Aim. This study aimed to synthesize, purify, and investigate the interactions between oligonucleotides (OLN) and recombinant signaling proteins, specifically interferon α2-β, insulin, their receptors, and somatropin, using docking and fluorescence spectroscopy methods. Methods. To analyze these interactions, we employed the Stern-Volmer equation in its general and modified forms, as well as the Gill equation, which enabled us to determine the binding and binding constants. We synthesized oligonucleotides using the solid-phase phosphoamidite method, which offers high efficiency and specificity. The resulting oligonucleotides were then purified by solid-phase extraction, which removed by-products and impurities, as confirmed by spectral analysis. Results. Fluorometric titration revealed that homopolymeric oligonucleotides bind to proteins within the medium-affinity range, forming non-fluorescent complexes. The most significant interactions occurred with shorter oligonucleotides. We observed negative cooperative binding between insulin and the oligoribonucleotide Poly(rG)₅. Notably, all proteins selectively bound only one ligand, the oligonucleotide Poly(dG)₅. Conclusions. Understanding the mechanisms of protein–oligonucleotide interactions may open new possibilities for developing antibiotics, antiviral drugs, and treatments for cancer and genetic diseases.
Keywords: signaling proteins, protein-ligand interaction, spectroscopy, oligoribonucleotide, oligodezoxynucleotide, docking
Full text: (PDF, in English)
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