Ronald C.D. Breslow (1931-2017): A career in review

Bioorg Chem. 2021 Oct:115:104868. doi: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104868. Epub 2021 Mar 26.

Abstract

Reviewed herein are key research accomplishments of Professor Ronald Charles D. Breslow (1931-2017) throughout his more than 60 year research career. These accomplishments span a wide range of topics, most notably physical organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and bioorganic chemistry. These topics are reviewed, as are topics of molecular electronics and origin of chirality, which combine to make up the bulk of this review. Also reviewed briefly are Breslow's contributions to the broader chemistry profession, including his work for the American Chemical Society and his work promoting gender equity. Throughout the article, efforts are made to put Breslow's accomplishments in the context of other work being done at the time, as well as to include subsequent iterations and elaborations of the research.

Keywords: Biomimetic chemistry; Bioorganic chemistry; Cyclodextrin; Origin of life; Physical organic chemistry.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / history*
  • Cyclodextrins / chemistry
  • History, 20th Century
  • Humans
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Thiamine / chemistry
  • Vorinostat / chemistry

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Cyclodextrins
  • Vorinostat
  • Thiamine