Noncovalent and site-directed spin labeling of duplex RNA.

An isoindoline-nitroxide derivative of guanine (Ǵ, "G-spin") was shown to bind specifically and effectively to abasic sites in duplex RNAs. Distance measurements on a Ǵ-labeled duplex RNA with PELDOR (DEER) showed a strong orientation dependence. Thus, Ǵ is a readily synthesized, orientation-selective spin label for "mix and measure" PELDOR experiments.