Synthesis of oligodeoxynucleotides bearing structurally defined adducts of mutagens

Abstract

Methodology is reviewed for the preparation of oligodeoxynucleotides bearing site-specific adducts of mutagens. Examples are presented of the use of the three general synthetic approaches: (1) direct adduction of oligonucleotides, (2) introduction of adducted nucleosides during oligonucleotide assembly, and (3) post-oligomerization methods in which an oligonucleotide is assembled containing an electrophilic equivalent of the target nucleoside, followed by formation of the adduct by condensation with a nucleophilic equivalent of the mutagen. The merits and limitations of the three methods are discussed.