ROSEPOT · Revolutionising Organic Synthesis: Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of Complex Organic Molecules for Non-Experts

The creation of new molecular entities and subsequent exploitation of their properties is central to a broad spectrum of research disciplines from medicine to materials. However, despite substantial progress, the problems and difficulties associated with chemical syntheses severely limits the development of these disciplines. In order to meet the emerging challenges across new disciplinary boundaries in a rapidly changing scientific landscape we require a step-change in the development of more rapid and robust techniques in organic synthesis. Our plan is to develop new reactions and strategies which enable us to essentially grow a carbon chain with complete control over its shape (stereochemistry) and functionality (which groups are incorporated). Specifically, we propose to create a family of chiral carbanions with good leaving groups attached which can be inserted into C-B bonds sequentially and in one pot so that at the end of the operation a complex natural product, pharmaceutical or material will be produced. Our ultimate vision is to render complex organic synthesis as easy as peptide/oligonucleotide synthesis is now by attaching the boronic esters to a solid support and automating the steps. This would enable complex organic molecules to be accessible even by non-experts in synthesis. Furthermore, by variation of the reagents and their stereochemistry any compound and any stereoisomer will be accessible thus allowing diversity elements to be introduced without additional cost. The impact for organic synthesis and the wider scientific community is immense as it will allow the properties and potential function of complex molecules (from pharmaceuticals to materials) to be studied and then exploited. It is enabling science.