Molecular recognition of DNA: From discovery to oncology

Pyrrole-imidazole polyamides are synthetic mols. programmed to read the DNA double helix by a set of simple chem. principles. These small mols. achieve affinities comparable to DNA-binding proteins and are cell permeable. Research efforts are focused on the modulation of gene expression pathways by disruption of transcription factor-DNA interfaces. The oversupply or overactivity of one or more transcription factors may be required for the survival, growth, and metastatic behavior of all human cancers. The efficacy of Py-Im polyamide oligomers targeted against therapy resistant prostate cancer xenografts will be discussed