Synthesis and Properties of Oligonucleotide Derivatives Containing Steroid Groups

V. F. Zarytova, E. M. Ivanova, M. N. Chasovskikh

Novosibirsk Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Siberian Division, Academy of Sciences of the USSR

Abstract: New alkylating derivatives of oligonucleotides carrying a steroid (cholesterol, testosterone or ergosterol) residue have been synthesized, the residue being introduced via its hydroxyl group into the triester oligonucleotide block in the presence of triisopropyl-benzenesulphonyl chloride and N-methylimidazole. Covalent attachment of steroids to oligonucleotides increases their hydrophobicity and does not influence the melting temperature of their complementary complexes. The data obtained showed that the oligonucleotide derivatives, bearing both an alkylating group of nitrogen mustard and a steroid residue, can be used as reagents for specific modification of nucleic acids.

Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry 1990, 16 (5):610-616

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