A G-Quartet Formed in the Absence of a Templating Metal Cation: A New 8-(N,N-dimethylaniline)guanosine Derivative This work was supported by the Robert A. Welch foundation. We thank Dr. Ben Shoulders and the staff at the NMR facility at the University of Texas for their assistance.

Abstract

Contrary to what was assumed previously, self-assembled G-quartets may be obtained even in the absence of a templating alkali metal cation. This observation leads to the suggestion that this structural motif, which has been implicated in a variety of biological functions, might be more widespread than believed. Specifically, it is found that guanosine derivative 1 exists as a tetrameric ensemble both in chlorinated organic solvents and in the solid state (see picture). Ar=p-Me2N-C6H4, Rib=ribose. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2000/z13962_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.