Development of a dynamic-kinetic resolution (DKR) for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure tertiary alcohols

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Harald Gröger
• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: from 2019 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 418711059

This research project centers on the development of the first example of a dynamic kinetic resolution (DKR) of tertiary alcohols. Such a process would be of high importance for the synthesis of a range of pharmaceutically relevant intermediates. While the DKR of secondary alcohols is described in the literature, the DKR of tertiary alcohols is unknown so far. Thus, this project should find a "proof of concept" and solution for this scientific challenge. Toward this end, the following five working packages will be studied:I. Identification of suitable biocatalysts for the acylation of tertiary alcoholsII. Identification of suitable metal catalysts for the racemization of tertiary alcoholsIII. Studies on the compatibility of biocatalyst and racemization catalystIV. Development of a dynamic kinetic resolution of tertiary alcoholsV. Extension of the substrate scope and application toward the synthesis of Efavirenz® and a tribenzotriquinacene derivative

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Japan
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Shuji Akai