The G-quadruplex-hemin DNAzyme can tag itself with the reactive substrate biotin tyramide

Genomic database searches suggest that there are a large number of potentially G-quadruplex forming sequences present in the human genome, in addition to their well-established localization in telomeres. Novel imaging techniques support these data and have begun to indicate the extent to which G-quadruplexes are present in vivo. Information on any biological function of these sequences is less clear. This thesis presents the creation of an assay that could target G-quadruplexes for imaging or pulldown and potentially give information on their biological relevance. We utilize the inherent peroxidase activity of the quadruplex-hemin interaction to initiate a tagging reaction based upon a reactive tyramide substrate.