The temperature dependent changes in the terahertz absorption spectrum due to the self-assembly of quadruplexes in a solution of the nucleoside guanosine monophosphate

The self-assembly of the nucleoside guanosine monophosphate (GMP) into complex DNA secondary structures, in aqueous solution is concentration and temperature dependent. It is a unique phenomenon that provides a basis for studying more complicated structures related to DNA. In the present study, we show that distinct features in the terahertz spectrum (30 to 400 cm
^-1
, 0.8 – 12 THz) are associated with the formation of GMP dimers and quadruplexes, and that these can be attributed to changes in the hydration water and intra-molecular modes of the aggregated structures. This finding establishes a basis for further investigation into secondary DNA structures using terahertz radiation, such as G-quadruplex and i-motif.