University Honors

The synthesis of bioactive molecules is a key topic in organic chemistry, particularly inthe development of anti-cancer agents. Our work consisted of three catalytic approaches aimed atsynthesizing potent bioactive compounds through the use of C-H functionalization and high-energy vinylic cation strategies. The first project focuses on the synthesis of anti-cancercolchicine derivatives utilizing high-energy vinylic cation intermediates. The methodologyinvolves the use of iron(III)/HCl “super acid” vinylic cation formation to access structurallydiverse colchicine analogs with anti-cancer properties. In the second project, a cobalt(III)-catalyzed C-H functionalization approach is employed for the synthesis of dihydroisoquinolones,a class of compounds with significant medicinal potential. Specifically, benzamides andnorbornadiene substrates were employed to access valuable intermediates with potentialmedicinal applications, facilitated by the selective activation of C-H bonds. The third projectfocuses on the catalytic C-H functionalization of benzamides and ynamides. Using our catalysischemistry, this approach enabled the direct conversion of readily available substrates intocomplex bioactive molecules, showcasing the versatility and efficiency of C-H activationstrategies. These projects collectively highlight the significance of catalysis in the synthesis ofbioactive molecules. The knowledge gathered from these investigations holds great promise forthe creation of molecules with therapeutic relevance and offers opportunity for discovery infurther organic chemistry research.