Chemistry: Molecular Click Chemistry
M.G. Finn, Georgia Institute of Technology
Valery V. Fokin, Scripps Research Institute
K. Barry Sharpless, Scripps Research Institute Synthetic chemistry has traditionally been dogged by logistically difficult procedures, nasty organic solvents, and a lack of specificity. “Click” chemistry, which often utilized three nitrogen atoms to form five-membered rings with two carbon atoms, binding reactants together strongly and stereo-specifically, has made a range of chemical and biochemical applications more feasible. Diagnostic fluorescent labeling of newly synthesized proteins, or the production of new polymer forms are examples of click chemistry in action. Image: New proteins within E. coli cells are made visible by a click chemistry mediated reaction between an amino acid like compound and a fluorescent dye. (Roland Hatzenpichler)
Valery V. Fokin, Scripps Research Institute
K. Barry Sharpless, Scripps Research Institute Synthetic chemistry has traditionally been dogged by logistically difficult procedures, nasty organic solvents, and a lack of specificity. “Click” chemistry, which often utilized three nitrogen atoms to form five-membered rings with two carbon atoms, binding reactants together strongly and stereo-specifically, has made a range of chemical and biochemical applications more feasible. Diagnostic fluorescent labeling of newly synthesized proteins, or the production of new polymer forms are examples of click chemistry in action. Image: New proteins within E. coli cells are made visible by a click chemistry mediated reaction between an amino acid like compound and a fluorescent dye. (Roland Hatzenpichler)