The creation of asymmetric molecules from symmetrical precursors is a useful strategy for organic synthesis. A new catalyst can accomplish this task through a unique, symmetry-breaking reaction.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access options
Subscribe to this journal
Receive 51 print issues and online access
$199.00 per year
only $3.90 per issue
Rent or buy this article
Prices vary by article type
from$1.95
to$39.95
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout
References
Zhao, Y., Rodrigo, J., Hoveyda, A. H. & Snapper, M. L. Nature 443, 67–70 (2006).
Mulzer, J. in Stereoselective Synthesis: Methods of Organic Chemistry (Houben-Weyl) 21st edn, Vol. 1 (eds Helmchen, G. et al.) 75–146 (Thieme, Stuttgart, 1996).
Comprehensive Asymmetric Catalysis Vols I–III (eds Jacobsen, E. N., Pfaltz, A. & Yamamoto, H.) (Springer, Heidelberg, 1999).
Thayer, A. M. Chem. Eng. News 84(33), 15–31 (2006).
Ohno, M. & Otsuka, M. Org. React. 37, 1–55 (1989).
Poss, C. & Schreiber, S. L. Acc. Chem. Res. 27, 9–17 (1994).
Deng, L. Chem. Rev. 103, 2965–2984 (2003).
Jarvo, E. R. & Miller, S. J. Tetrahedron 58, 2481–2495 (2002).
Kocienski, P. J. Protecting Groups (Thieme, Stuttgart, 2005).
Wuts, P. & Green, T. Protecting Groups in Organic Synthesis 3rd edn (Wiley-Interscience, New York, 2005).
Denmark, S. E. & Stavenger, R. A. Acc. Chem. Res. 33, 432–440 (2000).
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Denmark, S. Catalysts break symmetry. Nature 443, 40–41 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1038/443040b
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/443040b