Discovery of novel anti-HIV active G-quadruplex-forming oligonucleotides

A series of d((5')TGGGAG(3')) sequences, 5'-conjugated with a variety of aromatic groups through phosphodiester linkages, were synthesized, showing CD spectra diagnostic of parallel-stranded, tetramolecular G-quadruplex structures. When tested for anti-HIV-1 and HIV-2 activity, potent inhibition of HIV-1 infection in CEM cell cultures was found, associated with high selectivity index values. Surface Plasmon Resonance assays revealed specific binding to HIV-1 gp120 and gp41.