Nucleosides and oligonucleotides containing 1,2,3-triazole residues with nucleobase tethers: synthesis via the azide-alkyne 'click' reaction

1H-1,2,3-triazolyl-1,6-naphthyridin-7(6H)-ones as Potential Fluorescent Nucleoside Analogues: Synthesis and Optical Properties

In this article, we present the synthesis and the optical properties of three original molecules as potential fluorescent ribonucleoside analogues incorporating a 1,6-naphthyridin-7(6H)-one scaffold as a fluorescent nucleobase and a 1,2,3-triazole as a linkage. The nucleosides were prepared via a Cu alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction between a ribofuranosyl azide and a 4-ethynylpyridine partner. Construction of substituted 1,6-naphthyridin-7(6H)-ones was achieved through two additional steps. Optical property studies were investigated on nucleoside analogues. Powerful fluorescence properties have been evidenced with a remarkable change of emissivity depending on the polarity of the solvent, making these molecules suitable as a new class of artificial fluorescent nucleosides for investigating enzyme binding sites as well as probing nucleic acids. In addition, we are convinced that such analogues could be of great interest in the search for new antiviral or antitumoral drugs based on nucleosides.

Recent advances in synthesis of sugar and nucleoside coumarin conjugates and their biological impact

Naturally occurring coumarin and sugar molecules have a diverse range of applications along with superior biocompatibility. Coumarin, a member of the benzopyrone family, exhibits a wide spectrum of medicinal properties, such as anti-coagulant, anti-bacterial, anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activities. The sugar moiety functions as the central scaffold for the synthesis of complex molecules, attributing to their excellent biocompatibility, well-defined stereochemistry, benign nature and outstanding aqueous solubility. When the coumarin moiety is conjugated with the sugar or nucleoside molecule, the resulting conjugates exhibit significant biological properties. Due to the remarkable growth of such bioconjugates in the field of science over the last decade, owing to their future prospect as a potential bioactive core, an update to this area is very much needed. The present review focusses on the synthesis, characterization and the various therapeutic applications of coumarin conjugates, i.e., sugar and nucleoside coumarin conjugates along with their perspective for future research.

Effective, Rapid, and Small-Scale Bioconjugation and Purification of "Clicked" Small-Molecule DNA Oligonucleotide for Nucleic Acid Nanoparticle Functionalization

Nucleic acid-based therapeutics involves the conjugation of small molecule drugs to nucleic acid oligomers to surmount the challenge of solubility, and the inefficient delivery of these drug molecules into cells. "Click" chemistry has become popular conjugation approach due to its simplicity and high conjugation efficiency. However, the major drawback of the conjugation of oligonucleotides is the purification of the products, as traditionally used chromatography techniques are usually time-consuming and laborious, requiring copious quantities of materials. Herein, we introduce a simple and rapid purification methodology to separate the excess of unconjugated small molecules and toxic catalysts using a molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) centrifugation approach. As proof of concept, we deployed "click" chemistry to conjugate a Cy3-alkyne moiety to an azide-functionalized oligodeo-xynucleotide (ODN), as well as a coumarin azide to an alkyne-functionalized ODN. The calculated yields of the conjugated products were found to be 90.3 ± 0.4% and 86.0 ± 1.3% for the ODN-Cy3 and ODN-coumarin, respectively. Analysis of purified products by fluorescence spectroscopy and gel shift assays demonstrated a drastic amplitude of fluorescent intensity by multiple folds of the reporter molecules within DNA nanoparticles. This work is intended to demonstrate a small-scale, cost-effective, and robust approach to purifying ODN conjugates for nucleic acid nanotechnology applications.

CuII-mediated DNA base pairing of a triazole-4-carboxylate nucleoside prepared by click chemistry

Artificial metal-mediated DNA base pairing is a promising strategy for creating highly functionalized DNA supramolecules. Here we report a novel ligand-type triazole-4-carboxylate (TazC) nucleoside that is readily prepared by the click reaction. TazC nucleosides were found to form a stable TazC-Cu^II-TazC base pair inside DNA duplexes, resulting in Cu^II-specific duplex stabilization (ΔT_m = +7.7 °C). This study demonstrates that the triazole derivatives are useful in the development of metal-mediated base pairing.

Regioselective Synthesis and Molecular Docking Studies of 1,5-Disubstituted 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives of Pyrimidine Nucleobases

1,2,3-triazoles are versatile building blocks with growing interest in medicinal chemistry. For this reason, organic chemistry focuses on the development of new synthetic pathways to obtain 1,2,3-triazole derivatives, especially with pyridine moieties. In this work, a novel series of 1,5-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles functionalized with pyrimidine nucleobases were prepared via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction in a regioselective manner for the first time. The N1-propargyl nucleobases, used as an alkyne intermediate, were obtained in high yields (87-92%) with a new two-step procedure that selectively led to the monoalkylated compounds. Then, FeCl₃ was employed as an efficient Lewis acid catalyst for 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between different aryl and benzyl azides and the N1-propargyl nucleobases previously synthesized. This new protocol allows the synthesis of a series of new 1,2,3-triazole derivatives with good to excellent yields (82-92%). The ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) analysis showed good pharmacokinetic properties and no violations of Lipinsky's rules, suggesting an appropriate drug likeness for these new compounds. Molecular docking simulations, conducted on different targets, revealed that two of these new hybrids could be potential ligands for viral and bacterial protein receptors such as human norovirus capsid protein, SARS-CoV-2 NSP13 helicase, and metallo-β-lactamase.

Design, Synthesis, α-Amylase/α-Glucosidase Inhibition Assay, Induced Fit Docking Study of New Hybrid Compounds Containing 4H-Pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine, 1H-1,2,3-Triazole and D-Glucose Components

In this study, the click chemistry between N-propargyl derivatives of substituted 4H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidines and tetra-O-acetyl-α-d-glucopyranosyl azide carried out under catalytic conditions using catalyst CuI@Montmorillonite and additive N,N-diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA). The yields of obtained hybrid compounds having 4H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine connected to 1H-1,2,3-triazole rings were about 85-94 %. All these synthesized hybrid compounds were examined for in vitro α-amylase (with IC₅₀ values in the range of 103.63±1.13 μM to 295.45±1.11 μM) and α-glucosidase (with IC₅₀ values in the range of 45.63±1.14 μM to 184.52±1.15) inhibitory activity. Amongst this series, ethyl ester 8m showed the best inhibitory activity against α-amylase with IC₅₀ of 103.63±1.13 μM, while ethyl ester 8t exhibited the highest activity against α-glucosidase with IC₅₀ of 45.63±1.14 μM. The kinetics of the inhibition of compound 8t showed the competitive α-glucosidase inhibitor property of this compound. Furthermore, the most potent compounds had any cytotoxicity against human normal cells. Induced fit docking and molecular dynamics simulation calculations indicated that the inhibition potential compounds 8m and 8t had the active interactions with the residues in receptors of corresponding tested enzymes. The calculated binding free energy from MM-GBSA approach showed that the major energy components contributed to the active binding of these studied inhibitors, including Coulomb, lipophilic and van der Waals energy. Further, 300 ns MD simulation showed that studied ligand-protein complexes were stable and indicated the structural observations into mode of binding in these complexes.

Synthesis, biological evaluation and induced fit docking simulation study of d-glucose-conjugated 1H-1,2,3-triazoles having 4H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine ring as potential agents against bacteria and fungi

Gluco-conjugated 1H-1,2,3-triazoles having 4H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidines are synthesized via click chemistry of N-propargyl-4H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidines and glucopyaranosyl azide using CuI@Montmorillonite. Their antibacterial, anti-MRSA, and antifungal activity is probed.

Thermostability, Tunability, and Tenacity of RNA as Rubbery Anionic Polymeric Materials in Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine-Specific Cancer Targeting with Undetectable Toxicity

RNA nanotechnology is the bottom-up self-assembly of nanometer-scale architectures, resembling LEGOs, composed mainly of RNA. The ideal building material should be (1) versatile and controllable in shape and stoichiometry, (2) spontaneously self-assemble, and (3) thermodynamically, chemically, and enzymatically stable with a long shelf life. RNA building blocks exhibit each of the above. RNA is a polynucleic acid, making it a polymer, and its negative-charge prevents nonspecific binding to negatively charged cell membranes. The thermostability makes it suitable for logic gates, resistive memory, sensor set-ups, and NEM devices. RNA can be designed and manipulated with a level of simplicity of DNA while displaying versatile structure and enzyme activity of proteins. RNA can fold into single-stranded loops or bulges to serve as mounting dovetails for intermolecular or domain interactions without external linking dowels. RNA nanoparticles display rubber- and amoeba-like properties and are stretchable and shrinkable through multiple repeats, leading to enhanced tumor targeting and fast renal excretion to reduce toxicities. It was predicted in 2014 that RNA would be the third milestone in pharmaceutical drug development. The recent approval of several RNA drugs and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines by FDA suggests that this milestone is being realized. Here, we review the unique properties of RNA nanotechnology, summarize its recent advancements, describe its distinct attributes inside or outside the body and discuss potential applications in nanotechnology, medicine, and material science.

Triazole-Modified Nucleic Acids for the Application in Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry

This review covers studies which exploit triazole-modified nucleic acids in the range of chemistry and biology to medicine. The 1,2,3-triazole unit, which is obtained via click chemistry approach, shows valuable and unique properties. For example, it does not occur in nature, constitutes an additional pharmacophore with attractive properties being resistant to hydrolysis and other reactions at physiological pH, exhibits biological activity (i.e., antibacterial, antitumor, and antiviral), and can be considered as a rigid mimetic of amide linkage. Herein, it is presented a whole area of useful artificial compounds, from the clickable monomers and dimers to modified oligonucleotides, in the field of nucleic acids sciences. Such modifications of internucleotide linkages are designed to increase the hybridization binding affinity toward native DNA or RNA, to enhance resistance to nucleases, and to improve ability to penetrate cell membranes. The insertion of an artificial backbone is used for understanding effects of chemically modified oligonucleotides, and their potential usefulness in therapeutic applications. We describe the state-of-the-art knowledge on their implications for synthetic genes and other large modified DNA and RNA constructs including non-coding RNAs.

Advance of structural modification of nucleosides scaffold

With Remdesivir being approved by FDA as a drug for the treatment of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), nucleoside drugs have once again received widespread attention in the medical community. Herein, we summarized modification of traditional nucleoside framework (sugar + base), traizole nucleosides, nucleoside analogues assembled by other drugs, macromolecule-modified nucleosides, and their bioactivity rules. 2'-"Ara"-substituted by -F or -CN group, and 3'-"ara" substituted by acetylenyl group can greatly influence their anti-tumor activities. Dideoxy dehydrogenation of 2',3'-sites can enhance antiviral efficiencies. Acyclic nucleosides and L-type nucleosides mainly represented antiviral capabilities. 5-F Substituted uracil analogues exihibit anti-tumor effects, and the substrates substituted by -I, -CF3, bromovinyl group usually show antiviral activities. The sugar coupled with 1-N of triazolid usually displays anti-tumor efficiencies, while the sugar coupled with 2-N of triazolid mainly represents antiviral activities. The nucleoside analogues assembled by cholesterol, polyethylene glycol, fatty acid and phospholipid would improve their bioavailabilities and bioactivities, or reduce their toxicities.

A Hitchhiker's Guide to Click-Chemistry with Nucleic Acids

Click chemistry is an immensely powerful technique for the fast and efficient covalent conjugation of molecular entities. Its broad scope has positively impacted on multiple scientific disciplines, and its implementation within the nucleic acid field has enabled researchers to generate a wide variety of tools with application in biology, biochemistry, and biotechnology. Azide-alkyne cycloadditions (AAC) are still the leading technology among click reactions due to the facile modification and incorporation of azide and alkyne groups within biological scaffolds. Application of AAC chemistry to nucleic acids allows labeling, ligation, and cyclization of oligonucleotides efficiently and cost-effectively relative to previously used chemical and enzymatic techniques. In this review, we provide a guide to inexperienced and knowledgeable researchers approaching the field of click chemistry with nucleic acids. We discuss in detail the chemistry, the available modified-nucleosides, and applications of AAC reactions in nucleic acid chemistry and provide a critical view of the advantages, limitations, and open-questions within the field.

Flexibility and Preorganization of Fluorescent Nucleobase-Pyrene Conjugates Control DNA and RNA Recognition

We synthesized a new amino acid-fluorescent nucleobase derivative (qAN1-AA) and from it two new fluorescent nucleobase–fluorophore (pyrene) conjugates, whereby only the analogue with the longer and more flexible linker (qAN1-pyr2) self-folded into intramolecularly stacked qAN1/pyrene conformation, yielding characteristic, 100 nm-red-shifted emission (λ_max = 500 nm). On the contrary, the shorter and more rigid linker resulted in non-stacked conformation (qAN1-pyr1), characterized by the emission of free pyrene at λ_max = 400 nm. Both fluorescent nucleobase–fluorophore (pyrene) conjugates strongly interacted with ds-DNA/RNA grooves with similar affinity but opposite fluorescence response (due to pre-organization), whereas the amino acid-fluorescent base derivative (qAN1-AA) was inactive. However, only intramolecularly self-folded qAN1-pyr2 showed strong fluorescence selectivity toward poly U (Watson–Crick complementary to qAN1 nucleobase) and poly A (reverse Hoogsteen complementary to qAN1 nucleobase), while an opposite emission change was observed for non-complementary poly G and poly C. Non-folded analogue (qAN1-pyr1) showed no ss-RNA selectivity, demonstrating the importance of nucleobase-fluorophore pre-organization.

Purine and Purine Isostere Derivatives of Ferrocene: An Evaluation of ADME, Antitumor and Electrochemical Properties

Novel purine and purine isosteres containing a ferrocene motif and 4,1-disubstituted (11a-11c, 12a-12c, 13a-13c, 14a-14c, 15a-15c, 16a, 23a-23c, 24a-24c, 25a-25c) and 1,4-disubstituted (34a-34c and 35a-35c) 1,2,3-triazole rings were synthesized. The most potent cytotoxic effect on colorectal adenocarcinoma (SW620) was exerted by the 6-chloro-7-deazapurine 11c (IC₅₀ = 9.07 µM), 6-chloropurine 13a (IC₅₀ = 14.38 µM) and 15b (IC₅₀ = 15.50 µM) ferrocenylalkyl derivatives. The N-9 isomer of 6-chloropurine 13a containing ferrocenylmethylene unit showed a favourable in vitro physicochemical and ADME properties including high solubility, moderate permeability and good metabolic stability in human liver microsomes.

Tailored therapeutics based on 1,2,3-1H-triazoles: a mini review

Contemporary drug discovery approaches rely on library synthesis coupled with combinatorial methods and high-throughput screening to identify leads. However, due to the multitude of components involved, a majority of optimization techniques face persistent challenges related to the efficiency of synthetic processes and the purity of compound libraries. These methods have recently found an upgradation as fragment-based approaches for target-guided synthesis of lead molecules with active involvement of their biological target. The click chemistry approach serves as a promising tool for tailoring the therapeutically relevant biomolecules of interest, improving their bioavailability and bioactivity and redirecting them as efficacious drugs. 1,2,3-1H-Triazole nucleus, being a planar and biologically acceptable scaffold, plays a crucial role in the design of biomolecular mimetics and tailor-made molecules with therapeutic relevance. This versatile scaffold also forms an integral part of the current fragment-based approaches for drug design, kinetic target guided synthesis and bioorthogonal methodologies.

Small molecule purine and pseudopurine derivatives: synthesis, cytostatic evaluations and investigation of growth inhibitory effect in non-small cell lung cancer A549

Novel halogenated purines and pseudopurines with diverse aryl-substituted 1,2,3-triazoles were prepared. While p-(trifluoromethyl)-substituted 1,2,3-triazole in N-9 alkylated purine and 3-deazapurine was critical for strong albeit unselective activity on pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells CFPAC-1,1-(p-fluorophenyl)-1,2,3-triazole derivative of 7-deazapurine showed selective cytostatic effect on metastatic colon cancer cells SW620. Importantly, 1-(p-chlorophenyl)-1,2,3-triazole-tagged benzimidazole displayed the most pronounced and highly selective inhibitory effect in nM range on non-small cell lung cancer A549. This compound revealed to target molecular processes at the extracellular side and inside the plasma membrane regulated by GPLD1 and growth factor receptors PDGFR and IGF-1R leading to the inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis mediated by p38 MAP kinase and NF-κB, respectively. Further optimisation of this compound as to reduce its toxicity in normal cells may lead to the development of novel agent effective against lung cancer.

Synthesis and Anti-Proliferative Effects of Mono- and Bis-Purinomimetics Targeting Kinases

A series of mono-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines 4a-4k, unsymmetrical bis-purine isosteres 5a-5e and symmetrical bis-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines 6a and 6b connected via di(1,2,3-triazolyl)phenyl linker were synthesized by click chemistry. Whereas mono- 4g and bis-pseudopurine 5e showed selective inhibitory activities on cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells, bis-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine 6b exhibited potent and selective anti-proliferative effect in the nanomolar range on pancreatic carcinoma (CFPAC-1) cells. Among these, compound 6b induced a significant reduction in the expression level of CDK9 (cyclin-dependent kinase 9)/cyclin T1 in CFPAC-1 cells concomitant with attenuation of proliferative signaling mediated by c-Raf (rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma) and p38 MAP (mitogen-activated protein) kinases. Our findings encourage further development of novel structurally related analog of 6b to obtain more selective anticancer agent for treating pancreatic cancer.

Synthesis and hybridization properties of oligonucleotide analogues with novel acyclic triazole internucleotide linkages

Herein, we describe synthesis of novel acyclic dinucleotide analogues connected via triazole linkage in CuAAC reaction. Synthesis pathway starting from previously obtained building blocks containing alkyne or azide functional group is described. Further functionalization and application of dinucleotide analogues in DNA phosphoramidite solid-phase synthesis is also explained. Additionally, we have examined the influence of novel modifications on DNA duplex thermodynamic stability.

Nucleobase azide-ethynylribose click chemistry contributes to stabilizing oligonucleotide duplexes and stem-loop structures

The formation of 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles through copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) in oligonucleotides bearing 1-deoxy-1-ethynyl-β-d-ribofuranose (R^E) can have a positive impact on the stability of oligonucleotide duplexes and stem-loop structures.

Donor/acceptor chromophores-decorated triazolyl unnatural nucleosides: synthesis, photophysical properties and study of interaction with BSA

We report the syntheses and photophysical properties of some triazolyl donor/acceptor unnatural nucleosides and studies on the interaction of one of the fluorescent nucleosides with BSA.

2,4-Bis(4-aryl-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines: synthesis and tuning of optical properties by polar substituents

Novel D–π–A–π–D type chromophores – 2,4-bis(4-aryl-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines were prepared and their photophysical, electrochemical properties in conjunction with quantum chemical calculations were investigated.

Synthesis of triazole-nucleoside phosphoramidites and their use in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis

Triazole-backbone oligonucleotides are macromolecules that have one or more triazole units that are acting as a backbone mimic. Triazoles within the backbone have been used within oligonucleotides for a variety of applications. This unit describes the preparation and synthesis of two triazole-nucleoside phosphoramidites [uracil-triazole-uracil (UtU) and cytosine-triazole-uracil (CtU)] based on a PNA-like scaffold, and their incorporation within oligonucleotides.

Multicomponent click synthesis of new 1,2,3-triazole derivatives of pyrimidine nucleobases: promising acidic corrosion inhibitors for steel

A series of new mono-1,2,3-triazole derivatives of pyrimidine nucleobases were synthesized by one-pot copper(I)-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions between N-1-propargyluracil and thymine, sodium azide and several benzyl halides. The desired heterocyclic compounds were obtained in good yields and characterized by NMR, IR, and high resolution mass spectrometry. These compounds were investigated as corrosion inhibitors for steel in 1 M HCl solution, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique. The results indicate that these heterocyclic compounds are promising acidic corrosion inhibitors for steel.

The synthesis, antiviral, cytostatic and cytotoxic evaluation of a new series of acyclonucleotide analogues with a 1,2,3-triazole linker

The efficient synthesis of a new series of acyclonucleotide analogues with a 1,2,3-triazole linker is described starting from diethyl azidomethyl-, 2-azidoethyl-, 3-azidopropyl-, 4-azidobutyl-, 2-azido-1-hydroxyethyl-, 3-azido-2-hydroxypropyl- and 3-azido-1-hydroxypropylphosphonates and selected alkynes under microwave irradiation. Several O,O-diethylphosphonate acyclonucleotides were transformed into the respective phosphonic acids. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for activity against a broad variety of DNA and RNA viruses and cytostatic activity against murine leukaemia L1210, human T-lymphocyte CEM and human cervix carcinoma HeLa cells. Acyclonucleotide 22e exhibited activity against both herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2) in HEL cell cultures (EC₅₀ = 17 μM) and feline herpes virus (EC₅₀ = 24 μM) in CRFK cell cultures, while compounds 20k, 21k, 22k and 23k preferentially inhibited proliferation of human T-lymphocyte CEM cells at IC₅₀ in the 2.8–12 μM range.

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Nucleotide analogues with aliphatic linker between phosphorus and 1,2,3-triazole.

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Efficient synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole analogues of nucleotides.

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Antiviral activity and inhibitory effect on the proliferation of CEM cells.

Detection of mRNA of the cyclin D1 breast cancer marker by a novel duplex-DNA probe

Previously, we have described 5-((4-methoxy-phenyl)-trans-vinyl)-2'-deoxy-uridine, 6, as a fluorescent uridine analogue exhibiting a 3000-fold higher quantum yield (Φ 0.12) and maximum emission (478 nm) which is 170 nm red-shifted as compared to uridine. Here, we utilized 6 for preparation of labeled oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) probes based on MS2 and cyclin D1 (a known breast cancer mRNA marker) sequences. Cyclin D1-derived labeled-ssODN showed a 9.5-fold decrease of quantum yield upon duplex formation. On the basis of this finding, we developed the ds-NIF (nucleoside with intrinsic fluorescence)-probe methodology for detection of cyclin D1 mRNA, by which the fluorescent probe is released upon recognition of target mRNA by the relatively dark NIF-duplex-probe. Indeed, we successfully detected, a ss-deoxynucleic acid (DNA) variant of cyclin D1 mRNA using a dark NIF-labeled duplex-probe, and monitoring the recognition process by fluorescence spectroscopy and gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, we successfully detected cyclin D1 mRNA in RNA extracted from cancerous human cells, using ds-NIF methodology.

Scope and limitations of the nicking enzyme amplification reaction for the synthesis of base-modified oligonucleotides and primers for PCR

Enzymatic synthesis of short (10-22 nt) base-modified oligonucleotides (ONs) was developed by nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) using Vent(exo-) polymerase, Nt.BstNBI nicking endonuclease, and a modified deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) derivative. The scope and limitations of the methodology in terms of different nucleobases, length, sequences, and modifications has been thoroughly studied. The methodology including isolation of the modified ONs was scaled up to nanomolar amounts and the modified ONs were successfully used as primers in primer extension and PCR. Two simple and efficient methods for fluorescent labeling of the PCR products were developed, based either on direct fluorescent labeling of primers or on NEAR synthesis of ethynylated primers, PCR, and final click labeling with fluorescent azides.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 1,2,3-triazolonucleotides

A general procedure for the preparation of 1,2,3-triazole analogs of nucleosides from diethyl 2-azidoethoxymethyl- and 2-azidoethoxyethylphosphonates was elaborated. The application of microwave irradiation shortened the reaction time to 10 min in comparison to ca. 48 h when 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions were performed under standard conditions. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for inhibitory activity against a broad variety of DNA and RNA viruses. None of the compounds were antivirally active at subtoxic concentrations. Compound 17k exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on the proliferation of human T-lymphocyte cells (IC50=64 µM for CEM).

Design, synthesis, antiviral and cytostatic evaluation of novel isoxazolidine nucleotide analogues with a carbamoyl linker

5-Arylcarbamoyl-2-methylisoxazolidin-3-yl-3-phosphonates have been synthesised from N-methyl-C-diethoxyphosphorylnitrone and N-arylacrylamides in good yields. cis- and trans-isoxazolidine phosphonates obtained herein were evaluated for activity against a broad range of DNA and RNA viruses. None of the compounds were endowed with antiviral activity at subtoxic concentrations. Isoxazolidines having phenyl substituted with halogen (Ar = 2-F-C₆H₄; 3-Br-C₆H₄; and 4-Br-C₆H₄) have been found to inhibit proliferation of L1210, CEM as well as HeLa cells with IC₅₀ in the 100–170 μM range.

Triazolyl donor/acceptor chromophore decorated unnatural nucleosides and oligonucleotides with duplex stability comparable to that of a natural adenine/thymine pair

We report the design and synthesis of triazolyl donor/acceptor unnatural nucleosides via click chemistry and studies on the duplex stabilization of DNA containing two such new nucleosides. The observed duplex stabilization among the self-pair/heteropair has been found to be comparable to that of a natural A/T pair. Our observations on the comparable duplex stabilization has been explained on the basis of possible π-π stacking and/or charge transfer interactions between the pairing partners. The evidence of ground-state charge transfer complexation came from the UV-vis spectra and the static quenching of fluorescence in a heteropair. We have also exploited one of our unnatural DNAs in stabilizing abasic DNA.

Ultrasound-assisted one-pot synthesis of anti-CML nucleosides featuring 1,2,3-triazole nucleobase under iron-copper catalysis

A simple and efficient synthesis of modified 1,2,3-triazole nucleosides was developed. The strategy involved sequential one-pot acetylation-azidation-cycloaddition procedure and was found to be highly effective under a cooperative effect of ultrasound activation and iron/copper catalysis. The reactions were carried out under both conventional and ultrasonic irradiation conditions. In general, improvement in rates and yields were observed when reactions were carried out under sonication compared with conventional conditions. This one-pot procedure provides several advantages such as operational simplicity, high yield, safety and environment friendly protocol. The resulting substituted nucleosides were evaluated for their anticancer activity against K562 chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cell line.

Chemical architecture and applications of nucleic acid derivatives containing 1,2,3-triazole functionalities synthesized via click chemistry

There is considerable attention directed at chemically modifying nucleic acids with robust functional groups in order to alter their properties. Since the breakthrough of copper-assisted azide-alkyne cycloadditions (CuAAC), there have been several reports describing the synthesis and properties of novel triazole-modified nucleic acid derivatives for potential downstream DNA- and RNA-based applications. This review will focus on highlighting representative novel nucleic acid molecular structures that have been synthesized via the “click” azide-alkyne cycloaddition. Many of these derivatives show compatibility for various applications that involve enzymatic transformation, nucleic acid hybridization, molecular tagging and purification, and gene silencing. The details of these applications are discussed. In conclusion, the future of nucleic acid analogues functionalized with triazoles is promising.

Click Chemistry – a Versatile Method for Nucleic Acid Labelling, Cyclisation and Ligation

The copper-catalysed [3+2] alkyne azide cycloaddition reaction (the CuAAC reaction) is the classic example of ‘click’ chemistry, a relatively new concept that has been influential in many areas of science. It is used in the nucleic acid field for DNA cross-linking, oligonucleotide ligation and cyclisation, DNA and RNA labelling, attaching DNA to surfaces, producing modified nucleobases and backbones, synthesising ribozymes and monitoring nucleic acid biosynthesis. More recently a related click reaction, the ring strain-promoted azide–alkyne [3+2] cycloaddition (SPAAC) reaction has been used successfully in DNA strand ligation and labelling. This does not require copper catalysis, and therefore has many potential uses in vivo. In this review we discuss recent developments in nucleic acid click chemistry and their applications in biology, biotechnology and nanotechnology.

Design, synthesis, antiviral, and cytotoxic evaluation of novel phosphonylated 1,2,3-triazoles as acyclic nucleotide analogues

The 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of diethyl 2-azidoethyl-, 3-azidopropyl-, 2-azido-1-hydroxyethyl-, 3-azido-2-hydroxypropylphosphonates with selected N-propargyl nucleobases gave a series of the phosphonylated 1,2,3-triazole acyclonucleosides in which the phosphonate residue and nucleobases were linked by three- and four-carbon chains. Under standard conditions (TMSBr, ethanol), all synthesized O,O-diethylphosphonates were transformed into the respective phosphonic acids. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for activity against a broad variety of DNA and RNA viruses. Unfortunately, no antiviral activity was observed at 100 μM.

Synthesis and biological activity of the nucleoside analogs based on polyfluoroalkyl-substituted 1,2,3-triazoles

This paper offers the results of a synthesis and study of cytotoxicity and the anti-Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) activity of new 2-deoxy-2-chloro-pyranosyl derivatives of 4-tosyl-5-trifluoromethyl-1,2,3-triazole obtained via the addition reaction of the corresponding 2-N-chlorotriazole to the double bond of 3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-D-glucal. Nucleoside mimetics, derivatives of 4-tosyl-5-polyfluoroalkyl-1,2,3-triazoles containing fragments of 3-chloro-tetrahydrofuran, 3-chloro-tetrahydropyran, tetrahydropyran, dihydrofuran, dihydropyran, or acyclic substituents, were also studied. Evaluation of cytotoxicity (trypan blue and MTT methods) and anti-EBV activity (polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method) showed high selectivity indices for the compounds 4a, 4b, 5b, 6, and 8. A total of 15 novel compounds were examined in this study.

C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked DNA: universal DNA/RNA hybridization probes

Development of universal hybridization probes, that is, oligonucleotides displaying identical affinity toward matched and mismatched DNA/RNA targets, has been a longstanding goal due to potential applications as degenerate PCR primers and microarray probes. The classic approach toward this end has been the use of "universal bases" that either are based on hydrogen-bonding purine derivatives or aromatic base analogues without hydrogen-bonding capabilities. However, development of probes that result in truly universal hybridization without compromising duplex thermostability has proven challenging. Here we have used the "click reaction" to synthesize four C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked 2'-deoxyuridine phosphoramidites. We demonstrate that oligodeoxyribonucleotides modified with the corresponding monomers display (a) minimally decreased thermal affinity toward DNA/RNA complements relative to reference strands, (b) highly robust universal hybridization characteristics (average differences in thermal denaturation temperatures of matched vs mismatched duplexes involving monomer W are <1.7 °C), and (c) exceptional affinity toward DNA targets containing abasic sites opposite of the modification site (ΔT(m) up to +25 °C). The latter observation, along with results from absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, suggests that the pyrene moiety is intercalating into the duplex whereby the opposing nucleotide is pushed into an extrahelical position. These properties render C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked DNA as promising universal hybridization probes for applications in nucleic acid chemistry and biotechnology.

Efficient synthesis and cell-based silencing activity of siRNAS that contain triazole backbone linkages

An efficient synthesis of siRNAs modified at the backbone with a triazole functionality is reported. Through the use of 4,4'-dimethoxytrityl (DMT) phosphoramidite chemistry, triazole backbone dimers were site-specifically incorporated throughout various siRNAs targeting both firefly luciferase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene transcripts as representatives of an exogenous and endogenous gene, respectively. Following the successful silencing of the firefly luciferase reporter gene, triazole-modified siRNAs were also found to be capable of silencing GAPDH in a dose-dependent manner. Backbone modifications approaching the 3'-end on the sense strand were tolerated without compromising siRNA potency. This study highlights the compatibility of triazole-modified siRNAs within the RNAi pathway, and the modification's potential to impart favorable properties to siRNAs designed to target other endogenous genes.