Event Information

Guoqiang Zhou (Duke University)
METHODS FOR DIRECT CARBON–CARBON BOND FORMATION AND THEIR APPLICATION TO NATURAL PRODUCT SYNTHESIS
Abstract:
Direct carbon–carbon bond formation via soft enolization and in situ enolate formation provides a straightforward approach to certain key transformations of synthetic organic chemistry. Reactions are generally operationally simple and proceed under mild conditions using untreated, reagent-grade solvent open to the air. Using this direct approach as a basis, we have developed methods for the synthesis of -hydroxy thioesters, -keto thioesters, and 1,3-diketones, which are key intermediates for the synthesis of natural products, pharmaceuticals, and other biologically relevant compounds. In particular, we describe: 1) a direct aldol addition of simple thioesters, 2) a direct synthesis of 1,3-diketone compounds, 3) a direct crossed-Claisen reaction, and 4) an anti-selective four-component direct aldol cascade reaction.

Progress toward the total synthesis of apratoxin D is described. The key steps of the synthesis involve the asymmetric alkylation via chiral N-amino cyclic carbamate (ACC) hydrazones, a new technology recently developed in our group.

Ph.D. Dissertation Defense Seminar

Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 10:30am
Student Exams Seminar