Application of Cascade Processes for the Synthesis of Polycyclic Ring Systems

Emory University, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

The foci of this research are threefold. First, tandem cyclization/cycloaddition with rhodium carbenoids will be used to prepare natural products, for example the natural product komaroviquinone. Second, the cycloaddition and cyclization reactions of thioisomunchnones will be employed for alkaloid syntheses of representatives of the eburnamenine and aspidosperma families. Third, domino ring-forming reactions using various oximes and 2,3-bis(phenylsulfonyl)-1,3-diene will lead to the formation of piperidine-containing compounds such as halichlorine, a marine alkaloid. With this renewal award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research and educational activities of Dr. Albert Padwa in the Department of Chemistry at Emory University. Professor Padwa will focus his work on developing tandem, or cascade, methods for the formation of several carbon-carbon bonds and/or ring systems in a single operation. A combination of cationic, anionic, radical, carbenoid or pericyclic processes will be used to assemble complex target molecules. Broader impacts of the project are in the area of training of graduate students and the work has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry.