A new synthetic route to oligoribonucleotides based on CpRu-catalyzed deallylation

A triribonucleotide 3–5 U, which is fully protected by an allyl group at the 2′-hydroxy and phosphoric acid positions was synthesized, the deprotection being quantitatively achieved by use of a catalytic amount of CpRu(η3-C3H5)(2-quinolinecarboxylato) in methanol. The reaction is completed within 30 min at ambient temperature. The utility of the simple allyl protecting group has the potential to open a new pathway in the synthesis of RNA-related compounds.