Hit the Switch!

Dr. Alex Deiters, chemist at NC State, was determined to find a way to control triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs). TFOs are molecules used to prevent gene transcription on double-stranded DNA. 

Deiters used a light-activated cage to the TFO to inhibit its activity.

When the cage is exposed to UV light, it is removed and the TFO is no longer inhibited. Deiters then adjusted the process of attaching the cage so that in when there is no UV light, the TFO acts normally, but in the presence of UV light, the cage activates and slows down the TFO. This research produced a tool allowing for other researchers to study gene behavior in the environment of their choice with the simple flick of a switch.