Synthesis and molecular recognition properties of DNA- and RNA-base-functionalized oligo- and polythiophenes

An uracil-substituted bithiophene, a corresponding poly(bithiophene) and an ‘end-capped’ terthiophene have been synthesized. Their molecular recognition properties have been investigated. Both uracil-substituted bithiophene and poly(bithiophene) show a modification in the cyclovoltammograms in the presence of a complementary adenine derivative while the electrochemical properties of the uracil-substituted ‘end-capped’ terthiophene are not altered.