Story thread · 9 reports / 7 sources

Stable DNA building blocks enable faster oligonucleotide synthesis without oxidation

phys.org · 12dShare

The chemical synthesis of oligonucleotides (ONs) is central to modern molecular biology, diagnostics and nucleic acid therapeutics. While demand for high-quality ONs is increasing, the conventional synthetic method has long-standing efficiency challenges. Widely adopted P(III)-phosphoramidite-based ON synthesis requires an oxidation step after every nucleotide coupling cycle and uses moisture-sensitive building blocks, adding complexity to the workflow and slowing the process.

First report: Study reveals why DNA damage from smoking and UV rays may cause cancer in some people but not others — cam.ac.uk, 15d