Alternating Hetero H Aggregation of Different Dyes by Interstrand Stacking from Two DNA–Dye Conjugates

Seeing red: Aggregates in which methyl red and naphthyl red moieties are stacked alternately in a DNA duplex have been prepared by hybridization of two DNA–dye conjugates (see picture). A sharp absorption band appears at 478 nm, which is different from that of the individual dyes. A strong CD effect is also induced by the interstrand heterostacking of the dyes.