Our research group is currently interested in the design and synthesis of new metal complexes capable of probing structure of DNA and we are focusing on a class of compounds known as metallointercalators. Metallointercalators possess a long flat region that is capable of sliding in between the base pairs of the DNA double helix. We hope to combine this flat region with a portion of the complex that can hydrogen bond with the base pairs above and below the intercalation site, thereby providing enhanced binding and specificity. Previously we had reported the synthesis of the ruthenium and rhodium based metallointercalators [Ru(tacn)(dppz)(dmso)]2+, and [Rh(tacn)(dppz)(H2O)]3+ (where dppz = dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine and tacn = 1, 4, 7-triazacyclononane). The dppz group acts as the intercalator while tacn and the supporting H2O and dmso ligands provide the additional hydrogen bonding interactions with the base pairs. In an effort to expand our repertoire of tacn based metallointercalators, we are now examining the synthesis of the iridium based metallointercalator [Ir(tacn)(dppz)(H2O)]3+. Our initial investigation began with direct synthesis of the title compound using IrCl3 xH2O.  Reaction of tacn with IrCl3 xH2O produces a yellow/brown solid with limited solubility thought to be Ir(tacn)Cl3 based on its IR spectrum.  Treatment of this compound with Ag(CF3SO3) in 3M CF3SO3H (aq) acid yielded [Ir(tacn)(H2O)3](CF3SO3)3.  Reaction of this compound with dppz produces a tan solid for which NMR and IR data are consistent with the formulation [Ir(tacn)(dppz)(H2O)](SO3CF3)3. Details of the synthesis and characterization of this new potential metallointercalator will be presented.

Investigations into the synthesis of [Ir(tacn)(dppz)(H<sub>2</sub>O)]<sup>3+</sup>: A new potential metallointercalator for DNA binding

247th National Meeting (2014)

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Investigations into the synthesis of [Ir(tacn)(dppz)(H2O)]3+: A new potential metallointercalator for DNA binding

Investigations into the synthesis of [Ir(tacn)(dppz)(H₂O)]³⁺: A new potential metallointercalator for DNA binding