Reversible Control of DNA Binding with Cucurbit[8]uril-Induced Supramolecular 4,4′-Bipyridinium–Peptide Dimers

Many cellular processes in living organisms are regulated by complex regulatory networks, built from noncovalent interactions between relatively few proteins that perform their functions switching homo- and heterooligomeric assemblies or mono- bivalent states. Herein, we demonstrate the conjugation of a 4,4'-bipyridinium scaffold to basic region GCN4 bZip transcription factor can be exploited control dimerization conjugate formation supramolecular with cucurbit[8]uril. Importantly, this is able specifically recognize its target dsDNA, binding reversibly switched application external stimuli.