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The untranslated regions (UTRs) of viral genomes contain a variety of conserved yet dynamic structures crucial for viral replication, providing drug targets for the development of broad spectrum anti-virals. We combine in vitro RNA analysis with molecular dynamics simulations to build the first 3D models of the structure and dynamics of key regions of the 5' UTR of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Furthermore, we determine the binding of metallo-supramolecular helicates (cylinders) to this RNA structure. These nano-size agents are uniquely able to thread through RNA junctions and we identify their binding to a 3-base bulge and the central cross 4-way junction located in stem loop 5. Finally, we show these RNA-binding cylinders suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication, highlighting their potential as novel anti-viral agents.

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/anie.202104179

Type

Journal article

Journal

Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)

Publication Date

08/2021

Volume

60

Pages

18144 - 18151

Addresses

Physical Sciences for Health Centre, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.

Keywords

Vero Cells, Animals, Metals, Heavy, Macromolecular Substances, RNA, 5' Untranslated Regions, Antiviral Agents, Virus Replication, Genome, Viral, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Coordination Complexes, Chlorocebus aethiops, SARS-CoV-2