Beyond sole models for the first steps of Pt-DNA interactions: Fundamental properties of mono(nucleobase) adducts of PtII coordination compounds

A major feature of mono(nucleobase) complexes of PtII containing one or more aqua ligands is their ability to engage in intermolecular condensation reactions leading to multinuclear species with bridging nucleobases, bridging hydroxido or amido ligands. Their chemistry appears to be more versatile with isolated model nucleobases than is the case when relevant PtII species interact with nucleic acids. Special emphasis of this review article is on compounds obtained with pyrimidine model nucleobases (1-methylcytosine, 1-metylthymine, 1-methyluracil) and their cyclic condensation products. Aspects of chirality of mononuclear as well as head–tail dinuclear species will be discussed.We acknowledge support from TU Dortmund and the University of Zaragoza.Peer reviewe