A new G-triplex-based strategy for sensitivity enhancement of the detection of endonuclease activity and inhibition

EcoRI is an important biomacromolecule in live cells and protects bacterial cells against foreign DNA. In this work, we developed a simple and convenient G-triplex (G3) (5′-TGGGAAGGGAGGGAATTCCCT-3′)-based colorimetric assay for the rapid and selective detection of EcoRI activity and inhibition. The sequence specifically responds to EcoRI in the presence of K+ and hemin to form a G-triplex/hemin complex. Taking advantage of G-triplex, EcoRI activity was investigated under the optimized conditions. The absorption intensity ratio displayed a linear relationship against the concentration of EcoRI in the range 0 to 100 U mL−1, and the detection limit was 5.7 U mL−1. Furthermore, G3 showed good selectivity, and the ability to be used to screen for EcoRI inhibitors, indicating its potential in detection and analysis applications.