Scientists have demonstrated in a new study that carbon-based molecules can be much more dynamic than previously thought. When a carbon atom forms four bonds to different groups, the molecule can exist in two mirror-image forms. These mirror-image forms are vital in medicine because they have dif
In a recent study, scientists have shown that carbon-based molecules possess significantly greater dynamism than previously believed. Credit: Durham University
Usually, it is impossible to interconvert between these ‘enantiomers’ because to do so would require a bond to be broken, a process that needs too much energy.demonstrated that if the chiral center was part of a dynamic molecular cage structure, then a simple rearrangement of the cage could lead to the inversion of the mirror image form of the molecule.
In this way, carbon-based stereochemistry, which is normally considered to be fixed and rigid, became dynamic, fluxional, and responsive – a new paradigm in carbon-centered chirality.The molecular cage has nine carbons atoms in its structure, which are held together by a pair of carbon–carbon double bonds and a three-membered cyclopropane ring. This combination of bonds allows some of the bonds in the structure to trade places with one another spontaneously.
Further to uncovering this unique dynamic form of stereochemical interconversion, the researchers demonstrated that the preferences of the cage could be transmitted to nearby metal centers, opening the possibility that this type of responsive chirality might find uses in catalysis, and the synthesis of chiral molecules for biomedical applications.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Scientists develop new concepts about the shape and dynamic nature of moleculesScientists have demonstrated in a new study that carbon-based molecules can be much more dynamic than previously thought.
Read more »
'Shadow and Bone' Season 2 Posters Flaunt Its Dynamic New CharactersFans will meet Nikolai and the Twins when the fantasy series returns on March 16.
Read more »
HP is blocking third-party printer ink againHP’s “dynamic security” policy can block third-party ink.
Read more »
Bowling for $418? Surge Pricing Creeps Into Restaurants, Movies, Gym Class“It’s a huge turnoff.” Golf courses, water parks, even restaurants are trying out surge pricing.
Read more »
My New Hookup Has Me Trapped in an Impossible ParadoxDear How to Do It: Is this a red flag?
Read more »
Co-opting signalling molecules enables logic-gated control of CAR T cells - NatureLogic gating is used to develop a CAR T cell platform that is highly specific and allows the activity of T cells to be restricted to the encounter of two antigens, thus reducing on-target, off-tumour toxicity.
Read more »