Some aspects of lead(II) DNA interactions.

The interaction of Pb(II) ions with calf-thymus DNA was studied by differential pulse polarography, sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, chromatography on hydroxyapatite and viscosity measurements. Pb(II) ions may interact with nucleic acid via phosphate groups causing some stabilization of the DNA structure. However, the more specific interaction occurs with nucleic bases. The latter interaction destabilizes the nucleic acid structure and leads to inter- and intra-chain binding.