Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kv10.1

Title: Electronic tuning of site-selectivity.

Authors: Brandon C Wilcock, Brice E Uno, Gretchen L Bromann, Matthew J Clark, Thomas M Anderson, Martin D Burke

Journal, date & volume: Nat Chem, 2012 Dec , 4, 996-1003

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23174979

Abstract
Site-selective functionalizations of complex small molecules can generate targeted derivatives with exceptional step efficiency, but general strategies for maximizing selectivity in this context are rare. Here, we report that site-selectivity can be tuned by simply modifying the electronic nature of the reagents. A Hammett analysis is consistent with linking this phenomenon to the Hammond postulate: electronic tuning to a more product-like transition state amplifies site-discriminating interactions between a reagent and its substrate. This strategy transformed a minimally site-selective acylation reaction into a highly selective and thus preparatively useful one. Electronic tuning of both an acylpyridinium donor and its carboxylate counterion further promoted site-divergent functionalizations. With these advances, we achieve a range of modifications to just one of the many hydroxyl groups appended to the ion channel-forming natural product amphotericin B. Thus, electronic tuning of reagents represents an effective strategy for discovering and optimizing site-selective functionalization reactions.