Dynamic roles for G4 DNA in the biology of eukaryotic cells

Recent advances have made a persuasive case for the existence of G4 DNA in living cells, but what-if any-are its functions? Experiments have established how G4 DNA may contribute to the biology of eukaryotic cells, and genomic analysis has identified new ways in which the potential to form G4 DNA may influence gene regulation and genomic stability. This Perspective highlights those advances and identifies some key open questions.