Research & Initiatives
Our research program is focused on the development of new reagents and methods for organic synthesis, with an emphasis on asymmetric catalysis. The achievement of our objectives requires an understanding of stereoselective synthesis, physical organic chemistry, and metal-based reactivity. Current areas of interest of our laboratory include cross-coupling reaction, asymmetric catalysis and natural product synthesis.
Synthesis of Heterocycles Employing Three Membered Ring System
Miscellaneous Reactions
Cross-Coupling Reactions
Cross-coupling reactions provide effective method for the synthesis of numerous compounds that are important in biological, pharmaceutical and materials sciences. Our group has shown several synthetic tools and their applications for the synthesis of medicinally significant heterocyclic compounds. Subsequently, we also have demonstrated more atom economical C-H activation and functionalization processes.
Asymmetric Catalysis
Design and development of new class of chiral main chain polymer catalysts for asymmetric catalysis has been accomplished. These catalysts can be recovered by precipitation and recycled without loss of activity and selectivity. The enantioselectivity is as same as that of the monomers.
Polymer and Solid Supported Catalysts for Organic Synthesis
Atom efficient oxidation of organic substrates has been accomplished with a new class of polymer and solid supported catalysts. They are clean technological processes. One of the catalysts has been commercialized by Sigma-Aldrich (see Chemfiles, 2005, 5 (11), 8).
Self-Assembly and Acceleration of Reaction On Water
Self-assembled copper(II) complexes have been found to be effective for the acceleration of the Henry reaction on water. The reactions exhibit greater reactivity in comparison to that in organic solvents. The catalysts can be recovered and recycled without loss of activity and selectivity.
