Organic chemistry

Polymerase synthesis of base-modified oligonucleotides and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from base-functionalized nucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) will be studied. The starting modified NTPs will be prepared by aqueous cross-coupling reactions. The base-modifications will include redox active groups for electrochemical detection, fluorescent groups and chemically reactive groups for bioconjugation. Further post-synthetic chemical modifications of the functionlaized nucleic acids will be also studied. Potential applications will include bioanalysis, diagnostics and chemical biology.

Leading references:

Raindlová, V.; Pohl, R.; Šanda, M.; Hocek, M.:
Direct polymerase synthesis of reactive aldehyde-functionalized DNA and its conjugation and staining with hydrazines.
Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2010, in press (DOI: 10.1002/anie.200905556).

Cahová, H.; Havran, L.; Brázdilová, P.; Pivoňková, H.; Pohl, R.; Fojta, M.; Hocek, M.:
Aminophenyl- and Nitrophenyl-Labeled Nucleoside Triphosphates. Synthesis, Enzymatic Incorporation and Electrochemical Detection.
Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2008, 47, 2059-2062.