Synthesis of 2′ protected nucleosides

A method of deprotecting an oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising at least one 2′ protected nucleotide residue comprising the structure of Formula (II):

• wherein
• X is O or S;
• R4 is H, unsubstituted C1-C6 alkyl or substituted C1-C6 alkyl;
• B is a natural nucleobase, a modified natural nucleobase, or an unnatural nucleobase;
• and
• RHet is optionally substituted 5-10 membered heteroaryl or optionally substituted 5-10 membered heterocyclyl;
• the method comprising:
• contacting the oligonucleotide or polynucleotide with a composition comprising an amine or ammonia to deprotect the 2′ protected nucleotide residue.

A solid support bound oligonucleotide or polynucleotide comprising at least one 2′ protected nucleotide residue comprising the structure of Formula (II):

• wherein
• X is O or S;
• R4 is H, unsubstituted C1-C6 alkyl or substituted C1-C6 alkyl;
• B is a natural nucleobase, a modified natural nucleobase, or an unnatural nucleobase;
• and
• RHet is optionally substituted 5-10 membered heteroaryl or optionally substituted 5-10 membered heterocyclyl.