Synthesis of a fluorescent microgonotropen (FMGT-1) and its interactions with the dodecamer d(CCGGAATTCCGG).

A new type of microgonotropen that fluoresces upon binding to dsDNA has been synthesized. FMGT-1, an analogue of the minor groove binder Hoechst 33258, is functionalized with a polyamine chain capable of interacting with the phosphate backbone of DNA. Binding studies indicate that FMGT-1 binds more tightly to dsDNA than the parent compound Hoechst 33258.