Synthesis of certain 2'-deoxyuridine derivatives containing substituted phenoxy groups attached to C-5'; evaluation as potential dUTP analogues

Derivatives of 2'-deoxyuridine in which the 5'-OH group is replaced by a 2,3,6-trifluoro-5-hydroxy-4-nitrophenoxy or a 4-carboxy-2,3,6-trifluoro-5-hydroxyphenoxy group have been prepared for evaluation as possible dUTP analogues. They showed a weak ability to displace radiolabelled dUTP from a dUTP-binding antiserum. The corresponding compounds lacking the three fluorine substituents were prepared for comparison.