Project description
Novel synthetic methods expand access to fluorinated bioactive molecules
Natural and synthetic organic molecules that are based on carbon and display bioactivity are instrumental to numerous areas of medicine. Fluorination of these molecules by replacing a carbon functionality can enhance the physicochemical properties and bioactivity. However, doing so remains a challenge for synthetic chemists. The EU-funded OleFluor project is developing an innovative way to accomplish this that should generally be applicable to many types of fluorine-based functional groups. Success will open the door to a variety of organofluorines currently difficult or impossible to access. Experiments with radiolabelling are planned to assist in the development and demonstration of the new techniques.
Objective
This proposal aims to develop a new C–F bond-forming strategy that exploits C–C double bonds as functional groups by means of carbyne transfer catalysis. We want to develop a general and functional group tolerant process that can use petrochemical feedstocks, fine chemicals as well as complex molecules containing alkene functionalities. The new reaction introduce asymmetry within the skeletal structure of the olefin and reach valuable secondary and tertiary allylic fluorides that are difficult or not possible to make by current methodologies based on nucleophilic fluorination. The background and leadership of the Experience Researcher (ER) are key to successfully develop the proposed project and will allow the ER and the Host group to develop a new fluorination reaction that has the potential to have broad impact in the synthesis of fluorinated bioactive molecules. A key strength of this proposal is the introduction of a secondment in the Centre for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CICbiomaGUNE) to develop radiolabeling studies with nucleophilic [18F]-fluoride sources. With the development of this project, the ER will acquire new scientific training in carbyne transfer catalysis, C–C bond cleavage and (radio)fluorinations, strength leadership skills by co-supervising a PhD student and to introduce the Host group into radiolabeling techniques to impact PET imaging. The host group and ICIQ have the full commitment to aid the fellow to reach a position as independent academic.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF)Coordinator
43007 Tarragona
Spain