Cross-Linked DNA Generated by “Bis-click” Reactions with Bis-functional Azides: Site Independent Ligation of Oligonucleotides via Nucleobase Alkynyl Chains

Template-free cross-linking of single-stranded DNA bearing octadiynyl side chains at the 7-position of 8-aza-7-deazapurine moieties with bisfunctional azides is reported employing a Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne "bis-click" reaction. Bis-adducts were formed when the bis-azide:oligonucleotide ratio was 1:1; monofunctionalization occurred when the ratio was 15:1. Four-stranded DNA consisting of two cross-linked duplexes was obtained after hydridization. Cross-linked duplexes are as stable as individual duplexes when ligation was introduced at terminal positions; ligation at a central position led to a slight duplex destabilization.