Abstract
We report the first PNA self-replicating system based on template directed cross-catalytic ligation, a process analogous to biological replication. Using two template PNAs and four pentameric precursor PNAs, all four possible carbodiimide assisted amide ligation products were detected and identified by HPLC and MALDI-TOF analysis. We conclude that the two template complementary reaction products are generated via cross-catalysis, while the other two self-complementary (and in principle auto-catalytic) products are formed via intra-complex coupling between the two sets of complementary PNA precursors. Cross-catalytic product formation followed product inhibited kinetics, but approximately two replication rounds were observed. Analogous but less efficient replication was found for a similar tetrameric system. These results demonstrate that simpler nucleobase replication systems than natural oligonucleotides are feasible, thereby strengthening the foundation for the discussion of a possible role for PNA (like) genetic material in the prebiotic evolution of life and lay the ground for further studies into evolution of such potentially prebiotic systems. This journal is
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry |
| Volume | 12 |
| Issue number | 35 |
| Pages (from-to) | 6901-6907 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| ISSN | 1477-0520 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 21 Sept 2014 |