Cobalt bis(dicarbollide) is a DNA-neutral pharmacophore

The paradigm framing of this research preprint is the well-established understanding of DNA interactions with small molecules, particularly those used as therapeutic agents. This includes the accepted mechanisms of DNA binding, such as intercalation, groove binding, and electrostatic interactions, and the typical structural characteristics of molecules that engage in these interactions.

This preprint investigates the interaction between cobalt bis(dicarbollide) (COSAN) and DNA, aiming to clarify the seemingly contradictory findings regarding COSAN's DNA-binding properties. The authors employ a comprehensive range of experimental techniques, including spectroscopic, calorimetric, and other physicochemical methods. The results consistently demonstrate that COSAN does not interact significantly with DNA through intercalation, groove binding, or electrostatic interactions. This conclusion is supported by UV-Vis, CD, LD, viscosity, DSC, ITC, equilibrium dialysis, and NMR data. The study contributes to the existing paradigm by providing a refined understanding of COSAN's behavior in the context of DNA binding, effectively resolving prior conflicting observations. The research adheres to the established norms of scientific inquiry within the field, employing standard experimental techniques and data interpretation methods. Thus, it represents a clear example of normal science within the Kuhn's paradigm cycle.