Asymmetric redox-neutral radical cyclization catalysed by flavin-dependent 'ene'-reductases

Nat Chem. 2020 Jan;12(1):71-75. doi: 10.1038/s41557-019-0370-2. Epub 2019 Dec 2.

Abstract

Flavin-dependent 'ene'-reductases (EREDs) are exquisite catalysts for effecting stereoselective reductions. Although these reactions typically proceed through a hydride transfer mechanism, we recently found that EREDs can also catalyse reductive dehalogenations and cyclizations via single electron transfer mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that these enzymes can catalyse redox-neutral radical cyclizations to produce enantioenriched oxindoles from α-haloamides. This transformation is a C-C bond-forming reaction currently unknown in nature and one for which there are no catalytic asymmetric examples. Mechanistic studies indicate the reaction proceeds via the flavin semiquinone/quinone redox couple, where ground-state flavin semiquinone provides the electron for substrate reduction and flavin quinone oxidizes the vinylogous α-amido radical formed after cyclization. This mechanistic manifold was previously unknown for this enzyme family, highlighting the versatility of EREDs in asymmetric synthesis.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Amides / chemistry
  • Biocatalysis
  • Cyclization
  • Flavin Mononucleotide / chemistry*
  • Free Radicals / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Oxidoreductases / chemistry*
  • Oxindoles / chemical synthesis*
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Amides
  • Free Radicals
  • Oxindoles
  • Flavin Mononucleotide
  • Oxidoreductases