DNA Balance for Native Characterization of Chemically Modified DNA.

Chemical modification is a powerful approach to expand the chemical diversity and functionality of natural DNA. However, when chemically modified oligonucleotides are employed in DNA-based reactions or structures, it becomes quite difficult to predict, understand, and control their kinetics and thermodynamics. To address this challenge, we introduce a rationally designed DNA balance capable of measuring critical thermodynamic and kinetic properties of chemically modified DNA in their native environment.

Incorporation of cyclic azobenzene into oligodeoxynucleotides for the photo-regulation of DNA hybridization.

Cyclic azobenzene carboxylic acid was synthesized using a shortened route. After reaction with D-threolinol, the resulting cyclic azobenzene-D-threolinol (cAB-Thr) building block was transformed into the corresponding DMTr-protected phosphoramidite, and incorporated into oligodeoxynucleotides at various positions and frequencies by solid phase synthesis. The melting temperatures of these modified oligonucleotides were determined by UV spectrometry.