An intercalating agent: 1. Inserts between base pairs of the two strands of DNA 2. Makes double- stranded lesions in the DNA 3. Inserts between adjacent base pairs on a single strand of DNA 4. Commonly causes transversion mutations 5. Makes single-stranded lesions in the DNA Solution Chelating agent involves the formation or presence of two or more separate coordinate bonds between a polydentate (multiple bonded) ligand and a single central atom. Usually these ligands are organic compounds, and are called chelants, chelators, chelating agents, or sequestering agents..