Development of artificial ribonucleases using macrocyclic lanthanide complexes

The sequence-specific recognition and cleavage of ribonucleic acids (RNA) r epresents a fundamental challenge. Metal complexes are among the best synth etic catalysts for the cleavage of RNA. Covalent attachment of suitable mac rocyclic lanthanide complexes to oligonucleotides allows the cleavage of co mplementary RNAs in a sequence-specific manner. The preparation, properties and use of such artificial ribonucleases are highlighted. In particular, t he design and preparation of constructs cleaving RNA with multiple turn-ove r is described.