Beyond Gold: Exploring Acid-Promoted Cyclization in Organic Chemistry

How can we make pharmaceutical synthesis greener and more
efficient? In this episode of Innovate and React, we dive into the
world of organic chemistry with Dr. Nikolas Jankowski to explore an
alternative to gold catalysis. While gold catalysts are known for
their high selectivity and efficiency, their cost, environmental
impact, and challenges in industrial applications call for new
solutions. Nick shares his research on acid-promoted cyclization
using hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as a unique solvent, mimicking
some of the effects of metal catalysts. We discuss the
breakthroughs that led to a more efficient synthesis of oxazoles,
molecules with promising pharmaceutical applications. Tune in as we
uncover the intersection of fundamental research, reaction
optimization, and the future of sustainable chemistry.