Small organic molecules synthesized via rhodium, iron, and zinc catalysis for natural product and agrochemical applications
Synthesis of small organic molecules using rhodium (isoquinolone derivatives), iron (alkylated arene derivatives), and zinc catalysis (alkylated arene derivatives), including protoberberine derivatives with potential herbicidal activity. Alkylated arenes are produced via Friedel-Crafts reactions of unactivated alcohols using dual Bronsted/Lewis-acid catalysis.
Overview
This solution offers access to small organic molecules synthesized through transition metal catalysis, including rhodium, iron, and zinc-based methods. The portfolio includes isoquinolone derivatives (rhodium catalysis), alkylated arene derivatives (iron and zinc catalysis), and protoberberine derivatives with potential herbicidal activity. A key methodology developed in the lab enables Friedel-Crafts reactions of unactivated (non-benzylic, non-allylic, non-propargylic) alcohols via dual Bronsted/Lewis-acid catalysis, providing a route to alkylated arenes relevant to natural product synthesis. These capabilities support partners in agrochemical discovery and natural product-based research.
Technical specifications
- Rhodium catalysis for isoquinolone derivative synthesis
- Iron catalysis for alkylated arene derivative synthesis
- Zinc catalysis for alkylated arene derivative synthesis
- Friedel-Crafts alkylation of unactivated alcohols via dual Bronsted/Lewis-acid catalysis
- Synthesis of protoberberine derivatives with potential herbicidal activity
- Application of in-house methodology to natural product synthesis
Technology readiness level
The research is at an academic proof-of-concept stage. Methodology has been developed and applied to the synthesis of alkylated arenes and natural products, with protoberberine derivatives identified as candidates with potential herbicidal activity. Further validation is needed to confirm biological efficacy and assess commercial readiness.
About University of California, Riverside
UC Riverside is a comprehensive public research university within the UC system, recognized for translational work and talent development at scale. An on‑campus research and technology park, shared core facilities, and prototype spaces let companies co‑locate and validate new solutions alongside faculty. Partnerships with a medical enterprise and regional hospitals support clinical collaboration, while field sites and an extension network translate research to producers and communities across the region. Faculty secure competitive federal funding from NSF, NIH, DOE, and USDA, complemented by state and industry support. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, and startup formation, with incubator programming and flexible lab space for corporate collaborators.
delivered to your inbox.