8-Hydroxyguanosine

8-Hydroxyguanosine

8-Hydroxyguanosine

8-Hydroxyguanosine is a modified nucleoside that is formed by the oxidation of guanosine. It is considered a biomarker of oxidative stress and is commonly used in research to assess levels of oxidative damage to RNA.

Structure

8-Hydroxyguanosine is structurally similar to guanosine, with an additional hydroxyl group attached at the 8th position of the guanine base. This modification can lead to altered base pairing properties and potential effects on RNA structure and function.

Biological Significance

Elevated levels of 8-hydroxyguanosine have been associated with various pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging. The presence of 8-hydroxyguanosine in RNA can lead to errors in translation and protein synthesis, potentially contributing to disease development.

Detection and Measurement

Methods for detecting and measuring 8-hydroxyguanosine levels include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These techniques allow researchers to quantify the extent of oxidative damage to RNA in biological samples.

Role in Disease

Research has shown that increased levels of 8-hydroxyguanosine are associated with various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cancer. Understanding the role of 8-hydroxyguanosine in disease pathogenesis may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress.