The research focus of the working group lies in the investigation of inorganic modifications of nucleic acids, with a particular emphasis on boron-based functionalities. The goal is to create oligonucleotides that exhibit novel properties through the substitution of characteristic components of nucleic acids. Whenever the existing repertoire of synthesis methods for building desired monomers is insufficient, new reactivities are explored, and Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods are employed to optimize the design. Furthermore, DFT-assisted structural insights into these compounds are indispensable to ensure their compatibility with canonical nucleic acids. These oligonucleotides will find application in the field of biotechnology due to their distinctive backbone, which guarantees precise modulation of stability under biological conditions and, for example, triggers specific interactions with cell compartments.

Current Research Activities

1. Boron-based nucleic acids

The synthesis of biological macromolecules requires appropriate monomers that can assemble into larger structures. The challenge in synthesizing boron-based materials lies in bridging the specific reactivity of the element boron with the aqueous medium. Our research field spans from classical inert gas synthesis chemistry to biochemical methods for the production and analysis of corresponding materials. Our objective is to provide easy and efficient access to boron-based macromolecules for subsequent investigation within a biological context. These materials represent an appealing target because, although they differ in structure from canonical nucleic acids and thus possess properties advantageous for practical applications, they still maintain a level of complementarity.

2. Boraza-Crown Ethers

These classes of crown ethers distinguish themselves from others not only by having various donor atoms but also by their intrinsic ability to compensation the charge of coordinated cations through its boronate units. The diethanolamine backbone also provides the opportunity to further modulate the properties of the crown ethers through suitable substituents. Research in this field is focused on the synthesis of functional materials by incorporating transition metal cations and the deliberate modification of the backbone of the crown ethers.