Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The aim of my research program is the development of novel Bronsted acid- and metal-catalyzed methodologies. In particular, we are interested in the efficient preparation of C-glycosides, which have attracted attention due to their use as chiral synthons in natural product synthesis and as promising mimics of bioactive molecules. Moreover, a number of C-glycosides have been approved as drugs, including the broad-spectrum antiviral agent Remdesivir, as well as the antidiabetic agents Empagliflozin, Canagliflozin, and Dapagliflozin. However, the efficient preparation of this important motif remains a challenging task. My research program is comprised of three themes, which are conceptually related and work together to fulfill my long-term vision. The first theme describes a direct Bronsted acid-catalyzed preparation of C-glycosides from either commercially available or easily accessible carbohydrate derivatives. The second theme explores transition-metal catalysis for the synthesis of C-glycoside precursors. The third theme outlines the development of novel reduction methodology using simple systems and its subsequent application in the field of carbohydrate chemistry. The proposed research program will advance natural sciences and engineering knowledge and have a significant impact on our understanding of the fundamental aspects of acid and metal catalysis in carbohydrate chemistry. This will lead to the development of reactions for the synthesis of compounds of medicinal relevance. The proposed methodologies will serve as an excellent tool for the training of both graduate and undergraduate students.