Organic Synthesis
Articles tagged with Organic Synthesis
Rapid synthesis of conductive organic compounds using mechanochemistry
Researchers from Nagoya University developed a two-step synthetic method for dihydrodinapthopentalenes, conductive organic molecules with complex synthesis. The new mechanochemical method synthesizes DHDPs in 15 minutes with minimal solvent waste and structural constraints.
Conquering the final frontiers in nanographene synthetic methodologies
Researchers have developed a new methodology for selective molecular transformations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), targeting the challenging L-region. This enables the creation of larger PAH structures and new nanographenes, increasing versatility in technological applications.
HKUST researchers develop pioneering organocatalytic strategy for chiral sulfinamides with antiviral potential
The team developed an air-stable chiral phosphine-catalyzed approach to synthesize enantioenriched S(IV)-stereogenic vinyl sulfinamides, a promising class of antiviral compounds. These compounds exhibit potent binding activity against the mutant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and HIV-1 ENV protein.
AI tool streamlines drug synthesis
Researchers developed a machine-learning system that predicts how molecules form, cutting lab work time from months to days and reducing costs. The system uses asymmetric cross-coupling reactions to build complex compounds and can be applied across fields, deepening our understanding of chemistry.
Delight for diastereomer production: A novel strategy for organic chemistry
A team of researchers at The University of Osaka has found a novel method for creating diastereomers, which are structurally identical molecules with different biological activities. Their approach uses a group-14 allylatrane to control the reaction, resulting in the high-yield synthesis of complex molecules.
Electricity-driven nitrogen insertion enables sustainable heterocycle synthesis
Scientists at NUS create electrochemical reaction manifold to access functionalized quinolines and N-alkylated saturated N heterocycles, both key scaffolds in pharmaceutical science. This breakthrough overcomes limitations of existing methods using strong oxidizing agents.
Okayama University chemists pioneer light-driven macrolactone synthesis
Researchers at Okayama University develop a novel photochemical strategy for macrolactonization, transforming hydroxyaldehydes into large ring lactones. The method avoids harsh conditions and multi-step procedures, making it attractive for scaling up synthesis and improving cost-effectiveness.
Palladium-catalyzed cascade cyclization of trifluoroacetylsilane and 1,3-enyne to synthesize trifluoromethyl-substituted 2H-pyran compounds
A new palladium-catalyzed tandem cyclization reaction has been developed to synthesize trifluoromethyl-substituted 2H-pyran compounds with high efficiency and chemoselectivity. The method involves a cascade reaction of trifluoroacetylsilane and 1,3-enyne, followed by oxa-6π-electrocyclization.
Crystal-free mechanoluminescence illuminates new possibilities for next-generation materials
Scientists at OIST have created crystal-free films of photoluminescent compounds that exhibit mechanoluminescence when stimulated through mechanical forces. This breakthrough removes the need for complex crystal design and engineering in creating mechanoluminescent materials.
Chemists develop “Dump-and-Stir” technique for fast and safe carborane synthesis
Researchers from The University of Osaka develop a groundbreaking synthetic method to incorporate boron-rich carboranes into aromatic compounds, eliminating complex steps and hazardous conditions. This 'dump-and-stir' technique enables large-scale production using inexpensive aryl bromides and chlorides.
Novel biomimetic Schenck-ene/Hock/aldol tandem rearrangement reaction and its application in natural product synthesis and scaffold editing
Researchers have synthesized four natural products using a novel biomimetic Schenck-ene/Hock/aldol tandem rearrangement reaction. The reaction conditions are mild, and the strategy can be used for molecular backbone editing of natural products.
New catalysis method can generate a library of novel molecules for drug discovery
Researchers have developed a new catalysis method that can generate a diverse array of valuable compounds, including six distinct molecular scaffolds, using reprogrammed biocatalysts and sunlight-harvesting catalysts. The method opens up new possibilities for medicinal chemistry and accelerates combinatorial synthesis of novel molecules.
Here we glow: New organic liquid provides efficient phosphorescence
Researchers at The University of Osaka have created an eco-friendly organic liquid that phosphoresces at room temperature, overcoming issues with molecular aggregation and stability. This discovery offers potential applications in electronic displays, particularly for wearable devices.
New methods expand access to molecules key to human health
A new approach to the Chan-Evans-Lam reaction enables the synthesis of multiple natural products, including novel vinylic ethers. This breakthrough expands the potential for complex, biologically active compounds in drug research.
Breakthrough in indole chemistry could accelerate drug development
Researchers at Chiba University developed a method for selectively attaching an alkyl group to the C5 position of indole using a copper-based catalyst, producing yields of up to 91%. This approach could enable more affordable and scalable modification of indoles, crucial for drug development.
Rice’s Martí, Sarlah, Wang honored with national American Chemical Society awards
Angel Martí, David Sarlah, and Haotian Wang have been honored with national American Chemical Society awards for their outstanding work in chemistry. The ACS awards recognize individuals who not only advance the field but also inspire students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in chemical sciences.
One catalyst, two reactions: Toward more efficient chemical synthesis
Researchers develop redox-adaptive auto-tandem catalysis using cerium to perform multiple reaction steps in a single container. This method reduces overhead and energy requirements, leading to lower costs and reduced chemical waste.
Novel unsymmetrical molecule produces perfect photocatalyst potential
Researchers at The University of Osaka have invented a novel, unsymmetrical hetero[8]circulene molecule with unique properties that make it a potent organic photocatalyst. The molecule can speed up chemical reactions triggered by light, paving the way for sustainable and inexpensive material creation.
New chemical tool may improve development of key drug components
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a novel method to generate metal carbenes, highly useful for drug synthesis and materials development. The new approach is 100 times better than previous methods, making it easier and safer to produce these short-lived carbon atoms.
A new organometallic compound challenges a fundamental principle of textbook chemistry
Researchers at OIST have synthesized a stable 20-electron ferrocene derivative, defying the traditional 18-electron rule. This breakthrough could lead to new applications in energy storage, chemical manufacturing, and sustainable chemistry.
Add a twist to π-molecules! A new design strategy for organic semiconductor materials
Researchers developed three-dimensionally shaped molecules containing an internal twist, exhibiting properties of organic semiconductors. The molecule was verified to act as an organic semiconductor in an organic field-effect transistor.
Caterpillar factories produce fluorescent nanocarbons
Researchers have successfully used insects as mini molecule-making factories to create and modify complex molecules, including fluorescent nanocarbons. The 'in-insect synthesis' technique enables the production of functional molecules with unprecedented precision and versatility.
Chemical synthesis driven by high pressure
Researchers have successfully synthesized high-performance materials using high pressure, including superhard and superconducting materials. The article highlights the potential of high-pressure chemistry for discovering new materials and phases, despite challenges remaining in terms of experimental costs and equipment operation.
Metal catalysts can be valuable, even when they aren’t precious
A team from The University of Osaka has developed an efficient non-precious metal catalyst for converting biomass-derived furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl compounds, achieving high yields under mild conditions.
From millions of virtual structures to three real breakthroughs
A team of scientists at UNIST developed a data-driven structure prediction algorithm that led to the synthesis of three novel porous materials with exceptional selectivity in gas separation. The newly developed materials have significant potential for greenhouse gas separation and purification applications.
Scientists uncover spin–catalytic activity correlation in single-atom and -electron tailored gold nanoclusters
Researchers develop novel synthesis method for multi-shelled gold clusters and precisely remove atoms to study magnetic spin influence on catalytic behavior. They find that spin density concentrates more on iodine atoms than sulfur atoms, indicating potential role in tuning catalytic properties.
Engineering the conjugation of donor and acceptor units in covalent organic frameworks for efficient photocatalytic H2O2 synthesis
Researchers engineered conjugation of donor and acceptor units in covalent organic frameworks to enhance photocatalytic H2O2 production. USTB-46 achieved a high yield of 8274 mmol g−1 h−1, attributed to optimized light absorption, thermodynamic catalytic activity, and compatible D-A units.
Rethinking coupling methods for more sustainable organic synthesis
A comprehensive review article highlights emerging strategies that enable environmentally benign coupling reactions, reducing reliance on rare metals and lowering energy consumption. The hypervalent iodine approach facilitates selective bond formation with high functional group tolerance and broad substrate scope.
Synthesis of organophosphorus (III) compounds from white phosphorus via an adduct-catalyzed tandem electro-thermal approach
Scientists have developed a novel synthesis method for trivalent phosphorus compounds, leveraging an adduct-catalyzed tandem electro-thermal approach to produce high-yielding organophosphorus compounds with improved efficiency and selectivity. The approach also enables the in-situ consumption of renewable energy sources.
Graphene production method offers green alternative to mining
The new method produces high-yields of graphene oxide nanosheets with uniform thickness and characteristics comparable to mined graphite, making it viable for large-scale production and potential applications in electric vehicle batteries. Researchers are now exploring biobased sources for carbon fibers and delving deeper into the proc...
Turning waste organic compound into useful pharmaceuticals and energy using a technique inspired by photosynthesis
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a method of artificial photosynthesis that uses sunlight and water to produce energy and valuable organic compounds from waste organic compounds. The technique, called APOS, represents a significant step toward sustainable energy and chemical production.
Mechanochemistry strikes again – A facile means for generating organolithium molecules
Mechanochemistry enables efficient generation of organolithium compounds, solving traditional synthesis challenges with simplified, solvent-free method. The new protocol achieves high conversion rates and reduces handling risks for technicians with limited experience.
Finalists announced for the 2025 UK Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists
Three UK researchers will receive a £100,000 (US$126,000) prize at the 2025 awards, honouring their work in Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, and Physical Sciences & Engineering. The winners were selected from 94 nominees representing 45 academic institutions.
Novel catalyst development for sustainable ammonia synthesis
Researchers unveil Ba-Si orthosilicate oxynitride-hydride as a transition metal-free catalyst, offering a more sustainable approach to ammonia production. The novel catalyst demonstrates exceptional stability and higher activity than conventional ruthenium-loaded MgO catalysts.
Breakthrough in click chemistry: innovative method revolutionizes drug development
A team from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel trivalent platform for triple click chemistry, allowing for the efficient synthesis of complex compounds. The approach utilizes simple initial materials and promotes sustainable pharmaceutical synthesis.
Low-cost synthesis of pearlescent pigments achieved using vanadium phosphates
Researchers have developed a low-cost method for producing pearlescent pigments using vanadium phosphates, which are stable in organic solvents and environmentally friendly. The process produces glossy, iridescent pigments with high aspect ratios and can be tailored to achieve specific colors and finishes.
Breaking barriers in thioxanthone synthesis: a double aryne insertion strategy
A novel double aryne insertion strategy has simplified the production of complex thioxanthones, a type of organic compound with various industrial and medical applications. The new method enables efficient synthesis of diverse thioxanthone derivatives, including functional molecules and photocatalysts.
A foray into the theory of mechanochemical reaction rates
A new theory predicts that a layer of mostly product at the interface determines the reaction rate in mechanochemical reactions. The force applied by the balls accelerates the reaction by reducing the thickness of the product-rich layer and inducing faster collisions between reactants.
Game-changing COFs: Imine-linked wonders for tech and environment
A cutting-edge study introduces imine-linked COFs with exceptional properties for advanced technologies and sustainability. These materials offer unprecedented opportunities for gas storage, separation, catalysis, and optoelectronics, promising breakthroughs in environmental solutions and energy-efficient technologies.
A new method for efficient synthesis of anti-cancer drugs
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a new, highly selective and efficient method for synthesizing anti-cancer compounds. The innovative approach uses isopropyl magnesium bromide as a base to improve selectivity and scalability.
Harnessing multi-element perovskites as catalysts for selective oxidation of light alkanes
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully developed a multi-element perovskite catalyst that selectively oxidizes light alkanes to alcohols with high yield and selectivity. The breakthrough catalyst operates under mild conditions and exhibits excellent stability and reusability.
Rice’s Julian West awarded prestigious Grammaticakis-Neumann Prize
Julian West, assistant professor of chemistry at Rice, recognized for harnessing free radical intermediates through inner sphere photocatalysis. His work holds significant implications for organic synthesis and developing next-generation therapeutics and materials.
Heterogeneous photocatalyst achieves record-breaking performance for CO2 conversion
A new microwave-assisted synthesis route has improved the performance of a coordination polymer photocatalyst, achieving a record-breaking value for CO2-to-formate conversion with a nearly ten-fold increase in apparent quantum yield. The improvements are attributed to well-crystallized material and surface area increases.
New approaches to synthesize compounds for pharmaceutical research
Junior Professor Johannes Walker at the University of Göttingen has been awarded an Exploration Grant to develop new strategies for synthesizing saturated polycyclic molecules, potentially leading to new medicines. The award will enable his team to explore new lines of research and contribute to the development of new drugs.
AI-driven mobile robots team up to tackle chemical synthesis
Researchers at the University of Liverpool developed AI-driven mobile robots that can perform exploratory chemistry research tasks faster and more efficiently than humans. The robots use AI logic to make decisions, processing analytical datasets in real-time to determine the next steps in chemical synthesis.
Investigating performance limitations in cost-effective materials for perovskite solar cells
A new hole-transport material facilitates charge transfer and demonstrates high charge mobility in perovskite solar cells. However, the devices show reduced current due to an energetic barrier at the perovskite/HND-2NOMe interface, hindering performance.
A look into 'mirror molecules' may lead to new medicines
Researchers have developed a new chemical reaction to synthesize selectively left- or right-handed versions of mirror molecules, which differ in their biological effects. The new method enables the rapid and efficient production of pure enantiomers, paving the way for testing potential uses against various conditions.
Microwave-induced synthesis of bioactive nitrogen heterocycles
Recent research highlights microwave-induced synthesis as a transformative potential in drug discovery and development. This efficient technique enables rapid preparation of diverse N-heterocycles, including biologically active molecules such as pyrimidines, thiazoles, and quinolines.
Fluorescent molecules to illuminate life: simplified synthesis with formaldehyde
A research team has developed a simplified synthesis method for organic fluorophores using formaldehyde, reducing molecular size and increasing atomic efficiency. The new technique can also be applied to in vivo environments, showing promise for life sciences research and diagnostics applications.
Early Career Award to Texas A&M chemical engineer honors research in greener ammonia production
Dr. Abdoulaye Djire, a Texas A&M chemical engineer, has received the Army Research Office Early Career Award for his research on electrochemical ammonia production. His project aims to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly methods for producing ammonia using 2D nanostructured nitride MXenes.
Novel green chemistry: A safe, low-cost, and eco-friendly conversion process for the synthesis of sulfonyl fluorides, a world first!
A research group from Osaka University has developed a novel green chemistry method to synthesize sulfonyl fluorides efficiently and with minimal environmental impact. This process uses easily accessible raw materials, thiols and disulfides, and produces only non-toxic sodium and potassium salts as byproducts.
PFAS-free synthesis of fluorinated pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds
Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam created a PFAS-free synthesis route for pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds using a trifluoromethyl group attached to sulfur, nitrogen, or oxygen atoms. The method avoids the use of PFAS reagents, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
Breaking open the AI black box, team finds key chemistry for solar energy and beyond
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a method to understand and improve light-harvesting molecules for solar energy applications. By combining AI with automated chemical synthesis and experimental validation, they were able to produce molecules four times more stable than traditional ones.
New opportunities for organic synthesis under superheated flow conditions
Superheated flow technology leverages flow processes to operate above solvent boiling points, enhancing reaction rates and improving productivity and safety. This guide aims to facilitate the adoption of this innovative approach in organic synthesis.
Modular assembly of ethylene, arenes and heteroarenes
Researchers at NUS have developed a novel method for creating 1,2-arylheteroaryl ethanes using fundamental feedstock chemicals. The new approach enables the modular assembly of diverse molecular scaffolds with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and petrochemical industries.
One-step synthesis of pharmaceutical building blocks: new method for anti-Michael reaction
Researchers achieved a new method for synthesizing α-substituted carbonyl compounds using a palladium-catalyzed anti-Michael addition reaction. The method produces high-yield products and can be applied to various nucleophiles, including indoles and aromatic compounds.
Chemistry inspired by one-pot cooking
Chemists at the University of Konstanz create novel materials by balancing contrasting conditions using a single reaction vessel. The resulting pigment@TiO2 materials exhibit synergistic properties suitable for battery applications.
New catalysts enable greener ester synthesis
Scientists at Yokohama National University developed innovative catalysts using noble metals Rhodium and Ruthenium to facilitate cross-dehydrogenative coupling reactions. These reactions utilize oxygen as the sole oxidant, producing aryl esters with minimal waste.
New CPRIT chemistry professor to enhance cancer research at Rice
David Sarlah joins Rice University as a CPRIT-funded professor to contribute to the university's cancer research, focusing on natural product synthesis and total synthesis for cancer biology. His lab aims to streamline production of compounds used in cancer therapy.