INTERACTION WITH DNA OF THE NOVEL CATIONIC COMPLEX (2,2'-6',2''-TERPYRIDINE)METHYL PLATINUM(II)

The planarity and electron delocalization of the 2,2':6',2 ''-terpyrid ine (terpy) moiety in salts of the type [Pt(terpy)Me]X leads to extens ive stacking interactions in aqueous solution. IV/VIS, H-1 NMR and res onance light scattering spectra provide evidence for the tendency of t he complex to form large aggregates even under low ionic strength cond itions. The interaction of the cationic complex with calf thymus DNA w as investigated by spectroscopic techniques and mobility assays. At hi gh r(f) ratios the complex seems to form extended aggregates on the su rface of the nucleic acid but at lower r(f) evidence was obtained for intercalation.