Triple recognition of B-DNA.

A novel conjugate of Hoechst 33258, pyrene and neomycin was synthesized and examined for its binding and stabilization of A-T rich DNA duplexes using spectroscopic and viscometric techniques. The conjugate, containing three well known ligands that bind nucleic acids albeit in different binding modes, was found to significantly stabilize DNA over parent conjugates containing only one or both of the other recognition elements. The study represents the first example of DNA molecular recognition capable of minor/major groove recognition in conjunction with intercalation.