Left-handed helical structure of poly[d(A-C)].poly[d(G-T)] studied by infrared spectroscopy.

Infrared spectroscopic studies demonstrate the ability of poly[d(A-C)].poly[d(G-T)] to adopt a Z-type conformation. The Z form of the unmodified polynucleotide is induced by Ni2+ counterions and not by Na+. The B----Z equilibrium is shifted at room temperature, in the presence of 1 Ni2+/nucleotide, by an increase in the concentration of poly[d(A-C)].poly[d(G-T)]. The importance of specific binding of Ni2+ ions on the N7 site of purines in the stabilization of the Z form is also discussed.