Beyond DAD: proposing a one-letter code for nucleobase-mediated molecular recognition.

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Chemical Biology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Nucleobase binding is crucial for molecular recognition in biology and bioinspired research.
• Synthetic nucleobases and hydrogen-bonding motifs are used in diverse applications, including genetic code expansion and supramolecular materials.
• Current naming conventions for hydrogen bond patterns are inconsistent and hinder interdisciplinary communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of a standardized vocabulary for hydrogen bond (HB) patterns in synthetic nucleobases.
• To initiate a discussion on the requirements for a concise naming system for HB patterns.
• To propose a new, intuitive one-letter code for supramolecular two- and three-hydrogen bond motifs.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing current issues with inconsistent HB pattern descriptors.
• Discussing key considerations for designing a coherent naming system.
• Proposing a one-letter code based on chemical rationale and mnemonic principles.

Main Results:

• Identified the need for a standardized nomenclature for synthetic nucleobase hydrogen bonding.
• Proposed a succinct and intuitive one-letter code for common supramolecular HB motifs.
• Highlighted the potential of a standardized code to facilitate research communication.

Conclusions:

• A consistent naming scheme for synthetic nucleobase hydrogen bonding is essential for advancing the field.
• The proposed one-letter code offers a solution to current communication barriers.
• Standardization will foster collaboration and innovation in supramolecular chemistry and related disciplines.