5'-Nucleoside triphosphates ((d)NTPs) represent a class of vital biomolecules that are involved in countless processes and functions ranging from being the universal currency of energy to regulators of cell metabolism. In addition to their role in these fundamental biological transformations, their modified counterparts have advanced as a versatile and mild platform for the introduction of functional groups into oligonucleotides, a methodology that nicely complements the automated solid-phase synthesis that is usually applied1,2. Indeed, provided the (d)NTPs can act as substrates for RNA and DNA polymerases3, a wealth of functional groups including amino acids4-13, boronic acids14,15, nornbornene16, diamondoid-like residues17, side-chains for organocatalysis18, bile acids19, and even oligonucleotides20 can be introduced into oligonucleotides.
Beyond representing a convenient vector for the functionalization of nucleic acids, modified dNTPs can be engaged in SELEX and other related combinatorial methods of in vitro selection for the generation of modified catalytic nucleic acids21-30 and aptamers for various practical applications10,31-36. The additional side-chains that are introduced by the polymerization of the modified dNTPs are thought to increase the chemical space that can be explored during a selection experiment and supplement the rather poor functional arsenal of nucleic acids37. However, despite these attractive traits and the recent progress made in the development of both synthetic and analytical methods, no universally applicable and high-yielding procedure exists for the crafting of modified nucleoside triphosphates2,38.
The aim of this present protocol is to shed light into the (sometimes) intricate procedures leading to the synthesis and biochemical characterization of these activated building blocks (Figure 1B). Special emphasis will be given on all the synthetic details that often are difficult to find or are absent in experimental sections but are yet crucial for the successful completion of the synthetic pathway leading to the isolation of pure (d)NTPs (Figure 1).