Nuclear Aggregates of Polyamines–DNA Complexes Imply a Genomic Electronic Circuit

Abstract

This review introduces a novel conceptual framework, which suggests that key DNA functions, including rapid gene activation, conformational changes, and chromosomal structuring, could be regulated by an electronic-like circuit. The winding of strands around histones can also be attributed to an electronic effect. Many physiological processes are based on biomolecular electronic circuits and hinge on events of charge transfer. Mitochondria are recognized as the power source for cell functions, while the semiconductive properties of the nucleobases of DNA strands are controversial. Nuclear aggregates of polyamines (NAPs), supramolecular compounds formed by the interaction of polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) with phosphate ions, are credible candidates to form hybrid structures with DNA, which support electron conduction. The final effect of their assembly is the formation of nanotubes that envelop the DNA and assist the strands in their functions. Furthermore, NAPs show the typical structure of an organic semiconductor, having an aromatic-like arrangement of their monomeric rings and a pseudo-phosphorene nanoribbon disposition of the phosphates located at their apical region. Our work should be considered innovative, since we point to these compounds as a key for a more complete understanding of cell nucleus physiology and as potential models for the development of organic electronic nanodevices.