The Structural and Functional Properties of Z-DNA

Abstract

This review covers the stages of studying left-helical Z-DNA form, from its discovery in 1979 until the present time. The repetitive nucleotide sequences that are capable of the B–Z transition and factors that initiate the transition and stabilization of Z-DNA, including non-histone proteins, which interact with the Z-sites, are described. The most important result of this study is the demonstration of the presence of this form in eukaryotic DNA and its role in the regulation of gene transcription. In addition, the facts of involvement of Z-DNA in the induction of a number of human pathologies are described.