Novel method of detecting mismatch on DNA by using photo-induced electron transfer through DNA

Novel methodology for detecting a defect on double stranded DNA was presented, the principle being based on the dependence of the efficiency of photo-induced electron transfer through double stranded DNA on the structural disorders in the base stacking. The efficiency of photo-induced electron transfer between 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(N-methylpyridinium-4-yl)-21H,23H-porphine tetrachloride and N,N′-dimethyl-4,7-phenanthrolinium dichloride on double stranded DNA was changed by several base-mispairing on the double stranded DNA. This phenomenon will be useful for the development of the convenient method of detecting mismatch on DNA duplex in homogeneous solution.