Oligonucleotide Synthesis on Polystyrene-Grafted Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) Support

Supports consisting of a thin layer (2–10%) of polystyrene (PS) grafted onto a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) core are an interesting alternative to controlled pore glass (CPG) carriers in oligonucleotide synthesis. The beads are mechanically stable, do not show significant swelling, and allow effective removal of substrates by short washing steps with organic solvents. PTFE-PS as an organic polymer has generally more hydrophobic properties than inorganic polymer supports and, therefore, is well compatible with organic solvents such as anhydrous MeCN. We found PTFE with a content of 2–3% PS graft to be a very good support for the synthesis of oligonucleotides of extended length. In comparison, PTFE with 5–10% grafted PS is especially useful for large-scale syntheses. Functionalization procedures minimized in the extent of side reactions are described as well as examples for the use of the supports in syntheses of oligonucleotides both on large scale and of extended chain length.