Research Projects

Copper-catalyzed stereoselective bifunctionalization of π-systems has emerged as a powerful strategy for the synthesis of highly functionalized, structurally complex molecules. Recent advances in copper(I) catalysis enable the efficient formation of C–C and C–X bonds with excellent regio-, chemo-, and enantioselectivity under mild and environmentally benign conditions. Compared to most transition metals, copper is inexpensive, earth-abundant, and exhibits low toxicity, making it an attractive choice for sustainable synthesis. In particular, asymmetric boro- and hydrocupration of unsaturated systems followed by trapping with diverse electrophiles offers streamlined access to a wide array of C–C and C–heteroatom bonds. This area has gained significant attention in both academic and industrial settings. The proposed work aims to explore novel Cu(I)-catalyzed asymmetric reductive, borylative, and decarboxylative tandem cyclization reactions. The unified theme revolves around the in situ generation and reactivity of copper–boron (LnCu–B), copper–hydride (LnCu–H), and copper–allenylidene intermediates, enabling the construction of synthetically valuable dienes, allenes, and alkynes. Each objective in this proposal capitalizes on the unique features of copper catalysisincluding mild conditions, tunable ligand control, and diverse mechanistic pathways—to access stereodefined scaffolds relevant to natural product synthesis and medicinal chemistry. The anticipated intermolecular and intramolecular Cu(I)-catalyzed enantioselective reductive, borylative, and decarboxylative transformations are expected to yield important classes of heterocycles and carbocycles with high relevance in drug discovery and development.