Nucleobase-containing transition metal complexes as building blocks for biological markers and supramolecular structures.

The incorporation of metal complexes into nucleobases, nucleosides and nucleotides has provided a focus for the development of many novel compounds with a wide range of applications. In this perspective article the different methods to incorporate transition metal complexes into these species will be described. Applications of these compounds as biological markers, catalysts and how the hydrogen bonding properties may be employed in directing supramolecular assembly in both the solid state and solution will be discussed.