Modular DNA-based hybrid catalysts as a toolbox for enantioselective hydration of α,β-unsaturated ketones

Org Biomol Chem. 2019 Feb 27;17(9):2548-2553. doi: 10.1039/c9ob00196d.

Abstract

The direct addition of water to a carbon-carbon double bond remains a challenge, but such a reaction is essential for the development of efficient catalysts that enable direct access to chiral alcohols. We now report on the enantioselective hydration of α,β-unsaturated ketones, catalyzed by modular DNA-based hybrid catalysts, affording β-hydroxy ketones with up to 87% enantiomeric excess. Oligonucleotides containing an intrastrand bipyridine ligand were readily synthesized by a straightforward process using an automated solid-phase synthesis. A library of DNA-based hybrid catalysts could be systematically generated based on the composition of nucleobases, and the incorporation of a binding ligand and a nonbinding steric moiety. This study demonstrates the potential of modular DNA-based hybrid catalysts as a toolbox to accomplish the challenging enantioselective hydration reaction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • 2,2'-Dipyridyl / chemical synthesis
  • 2,2'-Dipyridyl / chemistry*
  • Base Sequence
  • Catalysis
  • DNA / chemical synthesis
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Ketones / chemistry*
  • Ligands
  • Oligonucleotides / chemical synthesis
  • Oligonucleotides / chemistry
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Water / chemistry*

Substances

  • Ketones
  • Ligands
  • Oligonucleotides
  • Water
  • 2,2'-Dipyridyl
  • DNA