Reduced aggregation and improved specificity of G-rich oligodeoxyribonucleotides containing pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine guanine bases

Guanine (G)-rich oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs) can form undesired complexes by self association through non-Watson–Crick interactions. These aggregates can compromise performance of DNA probes and make genetic analysis unpredictable. We found that the 8-aza-7-deazaguanine (PPG), a pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine analog, reduces guanine self association of G-rich ODNs. In the PPG heterocycle, the N-7 and C-8 atoms of G are interposed. This leaves the ring system with an electron density similar to G, but prevents Hoogsteen-bonding associated with N-7. ODNs containing multiple PPG bases were easily prepared using a dimethylformamidine-protected phosphoramidite reagent. Substitution of PPG for G in ODNs allowed formation of more stable DNA duplexes. When one or more PPGs were substituted for G in ODNs containing four or more consecutive Gs, G aggregation was eliminated. Substitution of PPG for G also improved discrimination of G/A, G/G and G/T mismatches in Watson–Crick hybrids. Use of PPG in fluorogenic minor groove binder probes was also explored. PPG prevented aggregation in MGB probes (MGB^TM is a trademark of Epoch Biosciences) and allowed use of G-rich sequences. An increased signal was observed in 5′-PPG probes due to reduced quenching of fluorescein by PPG. In summary, substitution of PPG for G enhances affinity, specificity, sensitivity and predictability of G-rich DNA probes.