Cyclization of the phosphate side chain of adenosine triphosphate: formation of monoadenosine 5'-trimetaphosphate

Monoadenosine 5'-trimetaphosphate has been prepared from adeno-sine 5'-triphosphate by a carbodiimide-mediated condensation. The molecule was characterized by (3l)P nuclear magnetic resonance, and its (31)P spectrum was simulated through the assumption of a three-phosphorus spin system. The molecule is highly reactive and is rapidly converted to adenosine triphosphate upon contact with water.