Postsynthetic on column RNA labeling via Stille coupling

Stille Coupling is a versatile C-C bond forming reaction with high functional group tolerance under mild conditions. Our on column synthesis concept for RNA modification is based on the incorporation of iodo substituted nucleotide precursors to RNA during automated standard solid phase synthesis via TBDMS-, TC-, and ACE- protecting group strategies. Subsequently, the RNA, still bound on solid support, is ready for orthogonal postsynthetic functionalization via Stille cross-couplings utilizing the advantages of solid phase synthesis. Several monomer test reactions were employed with 2-iodo adenosine and 5-iodo uridine and organostannanes as coupling partners under different conditions, changing the catalyst/ligand system, temperature, and reaction time as well as conventional heating and microwave irradiation. Finally, Stille cross-couplings under optimized conditions were transferred to fully protected 5-mer and 12-mer RNA oligonucleotides on-column. Deprotection and cleavage from solid support resulted in site-specifically labeled oligonucleotides. Derivatizations via Stille cross-couplings were performed initially with vinyltributylstannane as well as later with 2-furanyl-, 2-thiophene-, and benzothiophene-2-tributylstannanes yielding fluorescently functionalized RNA.