The canonical double helix structure of DNA, as described by Watson and Crick, has long dominated our understanding of genetic information. However, alternative non-canonical DNA conformations, such as G-quadruplexes (G4s), have emerged as critical regulatory elements in key biological processes. G-quadruplexes are four-stranded secondary structures formed by guanine-rich sequences that are prevalent in telomeric
regions and promoter areas of oncogenes.
In recent years, these structures have gained significant attention as promising therapeutic targets, particularly in the context of cancer. Their involvement in the regulation of transcription, replication, and genome stability makes them attractive sites for selective drug intervention. Rational drug design strategies have therefore been increasingly focused on the identification and optimization of small molecules capable
of selectively binding and stabilizing G-quadruplexes.
This presentation will explore the structural diversity and biological relevance of both DNA and RNA G-quadruplex structures, highlighting recent advances in ligand design and screening approaches. Emphasis will be placed on structure-based drug design, molecular recognition principles, and the challenges associated with achieving specificity over canonical DNA forms. By moving beyond the traditional double helix paradigm, targeting G-quadruplex structures opens new paths for innovative therapeutic development.

Prof. Anna Artese obtained her bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy in 2004 from the University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro. In 2005, she specialized in Software Development, and in 2008 she received her PhD in Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Rome “Tor Vergata”.
She is currently Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro. Prof. Artese also serves as a reviewer and guest editor for several scientific journals in the fields of drug design and medicinal chemistry.
She published 92 articles on SCI-indexed journals related to medicinal chemistry, with a H-index of 31. She has also authored one book, contributed to two book chapters, and presented numerous communications at national and international conferences.
Her scientific expertise is related to the application of new computational algorithms to analyze the drug·receptor intermolecular interactions and to design anticancer, antiviral and analgesic agents.