2',3'-Dideoxyadenosine 5'-triphosphate

2',3'-Dideoxyadenosine 5'-triphosphate (CAS No.: 24027-80-3) is a synthetic dideoxynucleotide analog widely utilized in molecular biology and biochemical research as a potent inhibitor of DNA polymerase-mediated chain elongation. As a triphosphate derivative of 2',3'-dideoxyadenosine and an active metabolite of related nucleoside analogs, ddATP lacks the 3'-hydroxyl group required for phosphodiester bond formation, thereby terminating DNA strand extension upon incorporation into nascent DNA. This mechanism underlies its classical application in Sanger sequencing methodologies, where selective chain termination enables precise determination of nucleotide sequences. In addition to sequencing applications, ddATP serves as a valuable tool for probing DNA replication dynamics, polymerase specificity, and nucleic acid metabolism in cell-free systems and cultured cells. It is also employed in studies investigating viral replication processes and the biochemical effects of nucleotide analogs on polymerase function. In vitro activity is typically observed in the nanomolar to micromolar range depending on enzyme source and assay conditions, with experimental concentrations tailored to specific study designs. Overall, ddATP is an essential reagent for research focused on enzymology, genetic analysis, and nucleic acid biochemistry.