Natural Products Synthesis via Organoiron Methodology

Marquette University, Milwaukee WI

Investigators

Abstract

This project will continue work to develop new organometallic methodology to prepare C-C bonds in a stereoselective fashion, and applications of this methodology. In particular, the preparation of (2-alkenyl-3-pentene-1,5-diyl)iron complexes and their transformation into vinylcyclopropanes and divinylcyclopropanes will be targeted. The divinylcyclopropanes are likely to undergo rearrangement to cycloheptadienes. These reactions will be applied to the synthesis of beta-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acids and frondosin A, an inhibitor of the binding of interleukin-8 to its receptor. With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Professor William A. Donaldson of the Department of Chemistry at Marquette University. Professor Donaldson's research efforts revolve around the development of organometallic methodology for the formation of cyclopropanes and cycloheptadienes, structural motifs present in a variety of biologically relevant molecules. Successful development of the methodology will have an impact on synthesis in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.