Modification of Oligo (Poly) Nucleotide Phosphomonoester Groups in Aqueous Solutions

Abstract

Selective modification of oligo (poly) nucleotide phosphomonoester groups in an aqueous medium by N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide in the presence of various nucleophilic agents has been investigated. Optimal conditions of the modification by amino- and hydroxycompounds have been found. Based on these studies a general efficient method for preparation of oligo (poly) nucleotide phosphoamidates and phosphodiesters in an aqueous solution has been developed. The method allows to prepare both oligodeoxyribonucleotide derivatives at 3′- and 5′-terminal phosphate groups and oligoribonucleotide derivatives at 5′-terminal phosphate groups with 80–100% yields.