A new approach to the synthesis of a protected 2-aminopurine derivative and its incorporation into oligodeoxynucleotides containing the Eco RI and Bam HI recognition sites.

A protected 2-aminopurine nucleoside suitable for incorporation into oligodeoxynucleotides using phosphite triester chemical synthesis procedures has been prepared via oxidation of a purine hydrazino derivative with silver (I) oxide. Five oligodeoxynucleotides containing Eco RI and Bam HI recognition sites have been prepared such that, in the double stranded form, the 2-aminopurine base has either a complementary thymine or cytosine nucleobase. The helix character and thermodynamic parameters for helix formation have been examined.