Isolated single chains of the coordination polymer [Cd(6-MCP)(2)(.)2H(2)O](n) (6-MCP = 6-mercaptopurinate) (see Figure and inside cover) have been prepared by ultrasonic dispersion, ultracentrifugation, and deposition on a treated mica surface, and their mechanical and electrical properties studied. The observed insulating behaviour of the chains has been confirmed using density functional theory calculations.