Induction of senescence in cancer cells by the G‐quadruplex stabilizer, BMVC4, is independent of its telomerase inhibitory activity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Telomerase is the enzyme responsible for extending G‐strand telomeric DNA and represents a promising target for treatment of neoplasia. Inhibition of telomerase can be achieved by stabilization of G‐quadruplex DNA structures. Here, we characterize the cellular effects of a novel G‐quadruplex stabilizing compound, 3,6‐bis(4‐methyl‐2‐vinylpyrazinium iodine) carbazole (BMVC4).

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