Approaches to Improved Synthesis Design: Mechanistic and Synthetic Studies on New Annelation Methods

Stanford University, Stanford CA

Investigators

Abstract

The focus of this research will include the exploration of [5+2] cycloaddition of simple, unactivated vinylcyclopropanes, of substituent effects in the rearrangement and [5+1] cycloaddition of vinylcyclopropanes and of asymmetric [5+2] cycloadditions. Metal-catalyzed cycloadditions in water, studies on [6+2] cycloadditions, and studies on [8+1], [8+2] and [8+4] cycloadditions will also be carried out. Exploration of [3+2] and [4+2] cycloadditions involving cyclobutanones and of multicomponent cycloadditions such as [4+2+1], [5+2+1] and [5+2+1+1] cases will be carried out and serial cycloadditions will be studied as well. The overall goal is to develop new reactions and strategies for the synthesis of complex molecules. With this renewal award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Dr. Paul A. Wender of the Department of Chemistry at Stanford University. Professor Wender will focus his work on developing fundamentally new reactions, reagents and strategies for organic synthesis. A special emphasis is placed on catalyzed reactions that, in the absence of catalyst, are forbidden or hard to achieve. Further significance derives from the enormous potential of transition metal catalysis in the development of environmentally acceptable syntheses that provide little reagent-derived waste. The project provides an excellent training program for pre-professionals and the results of the research could have a strong impact in areas outside chemistry, such as the pharmaceutical industry.