[Nucleotide and oligonucleotide derivatives--a research tool of molecular biology]

The work of the authors are discussed, that they have been engaged in since the late forties, on synthesis and investigation of mono- and oligonucleotide derivatives. One class of mixed biopolymers (mono (oligo) nucleotides) is used to demonstrate the effect of covalent and noncovalent intramolecular interactions on the character of various protein-nucleic acid contacts. General approaches to creating regioselective reagents are outlined, that can be widely used for modification of both proteins and nucleic acids. Designing and application of some of such reagents is analyzed.