Stabilization of G-Quadruplex DNA and Inhibition of Telomerase Activity by Square-Planar Nickel(II) Complexes

Two new alkylamine-substituted nickel(II)-salphen complexes have been prepared and their interactions with DNA investigated. FRET studies have shown that these complexes have a remarkable ability to stabilize G-quadruplex DNA. Furthermore, TRAP/Taq assays have shown that these complexes inhibit telomerase at low micromolar concentrations.