The modification of natural nucleic acids or synthesis of novel DNA mimics can facilitate new structure, function and properties. In particular, the use of modified nucleic acids for applications in biosensing has become a popular field of study given the desire for rapid and reliable theranostic devices. The aim of the projects detailed in this thesis was to study a range of DNA modifications, with a view to gaining an enhanced understanding of their effects on DNA structure, but also on their ability to act as sensing platforms for the extraction of important biological information stored within DNA targets. The four projects discussed include: organometallic mimics of DNA based on ferrocene (FcNA) and corresponding FcNA-DNA conjugates and their effect on structure; FcNA-DNA conjugates that bind mercury; redox-active macrocycles incorporated into DNA as SNP sensors and DNA labeled virus particles that probe the presence of pathogens via a bionanoparticle supported PCR reaction which can be monitored by Linear Dichroism spectroscopy
