Alternative DNA structures unveil new insights into insulin regulation and diabetes
BIOTECHNOLOGY
9/9/2024
Typically, DNA has a double helix structure, but recent studies have also found it in other forms, such as G-quadruplex and i-motif structures, which resemble knots. One example of this can be found in the Insulin-linked polymorphic region (ILPR), a DNA region in the promoter of the insulin gene. In a study published in Nature Communications in August 2024, researchers from University College London revealed that these alternative DNA structures (G-quadruplex and i-motif) may be linked to insulin regulation. The study demonstrated in vitro that different sequence variants of ILPR form distinct DNA structures. Moreover, reporter genes in cellulo indicated that insulin expression might change depending on which DNA structure is formed. After studying the crystal structure and dynamics of the intramolecular i-motif, the researchers also revealed that the DNA sequences within the i-motif loop regions form additional interactions critical for its stability. These findings provide new insights into the relationship between alternative DNA structures, insulin regulation, and diabetes, which could have significant potential in future diabetes treatment development.