A conformationally preorganized universal solid support for efficient oligonucleotide synthesis

A novel, conformationally preorganized nonnucleosidic universal solid support for oligonucleotide synthesis was developed. The solid support featured two chemically equivalent hydroxy groups locked in syn-periplanar orientation and orthogonally protected with 4,4'-dimethoxytrityl and acetyl groups. The solid support was extensively tested in the preparation of oligonucleotides and their phosphorothioate analogues containing 2'-deoxy, 2'-O-methyl, and 2'-O-methoxyethylnucleoside residues at the 3'-terminus. Upon completion of oligonucleotide chain assembly, the support-bound oligonucleotide material was treated with concentrated ammonium hydroxide, which removed the O-acetyl protection. The deprotected hydroxy group then effected the transesterification of a phosphate linkage between the solid support and the 3'-terminal nucleoside residue to result in a facile release of the oligonucleotide to solution. The kinetics of the release process was studied in a continuous flow of concentrated aqueous ammonium hydroxide at a temperature of 300.15 K. Optimal conditions for the release of oligonucleotides depending on the chemistry of the backbone and 3'-terminal nucleoside residue were formulated.