Drugs that target specific sequences of DNA in the human genome may be close.
Peter Dervan and his colleagues at the California Institute of Technology have
synthesised a molecule that binds to a specific sequence of DNA 16 base pairs
long, the shortest sequence that should be unique in the human genome (
Journal of the American Chemical Society, vol 120, p 3434). He had
previously only been able to block sequences of seven pairs. If the molecules
can inhibit DNA expression, they could be used as drugs, for example to block
the spread of viruses.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Twisteddoodles on appropriate leaving gifts for scientific colleagues
Regulars
Mind
How some people's brains make an extraordinary recovery from stroke
Features
ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû1000¼¯ºÏ
Unapproved gene therapy for boosting longevity is set to go on sale
News
ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû1000¼¯ºÏ
Woman with Alzheimer's starts conversing again after taking psilocybin
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles
1
Woman with Alzheimer's starts conversing again after taking psilocybin
2
How menopause radically changes the brain – and what happens after
3
Faecal transplant makes the brains of old mice act young again
4
Unapproved gene therapy for boosting longevity is set to go on sale
5
People training new AI models admit they just get chatbots to do it
6
New-to-science spider builds trap that flings ants into the air
7
‘Fusogenic’ neurosurgery let paralysed pigs walk again – are we next?
8
The secrets to keeping your brain sharp in old age
9
Can prebiotics, probiotics or postbiotics help your ageing microbiome?
10
Most portable air conditioners suck – but there's an easy fix
