Total Synthesis as a Vehicle for Collaboration

J Am Chem Soc. 2019 Aug 14;141(32):12423-12443. doi: 10.1021/jacs.9b05588. Epub 2019 Jul 29.

Abstract

"Collaboration" is not the first word most would associate with the field of total synthesis. In fact, the spirit of total synthesis is all-too-often reputed as being more competitive, rather than collaborative, sometimes even within individual laboratories. However, recent studies in total synthesis have inspired a number of collaborative efforts that strategically blend synthetic methodology, biocatalysis, biosynthesis, computational chemistry, and drug discovery with complex molecule synthesis. This Perspective highlights select recent advances in these areas, including collaborative syntheses of chlorolissoclimide, nigelladine A, artemisinin, ingenol, hippolachnin A, communesin A, and citrinalin B. The legendary Woodward-Eschenmoser collaboration that led to the total synthesis of vitamin B12 is also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products / chemical synthesis*
  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Research Design*

Substances

  • Biological Products