Synthesis of combinatorial libraries with only one representation of each structure.

A technique of generating libraries in which every compound is displayed only once and all possible combinations are prepared with absolute certainty is presented. The method is based on the stepwise division of a continuous carrier in each step of randomization. Polypropylene membrane and cotton thread were evaluated as potential supports for this approach to library construction. Cotton thread accommodates 400 nmol of test compound per cm, but its mechanical properties limit the dimension of libraries. An alternative combinatorial library of "restructurable toothbrushes" is suggested.