The structure, stability, H-bonding pattern, and electrostatic potential of adenine tetrads

Two conformations of the adenine tetrad were investigated at the HF and B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) levels of theory. Both conformations are predicted to be stable only in the nonplanar form. They adopt the bowl type structure. Since the planar form offers better geometry for stacking with the adjacent G-tetrad, both planar forms are expected to be important in the formation of the tetraplexes. Based on electrostatic potential map the positive electrostatic potential in the central area of both conformations is expected to reinforce the stacking between the A-tetrads and the G-tetrads in the tetraplexes.