UChicago Scientists Break New Ground in Electrochemistry for Drug Synthesis

University of Chicago researchers have made a pivotal breakthrough in electrochemistry, opening doors for more efficient drug development processes. Published in Nature Catalysis, their study unveils a novel method to enhance chemical reactions crucial in drug synthesis using electricity.

Key Highlights of the Study:

• Electrochemistry Advancement: The team has discovered a way to boost certain chemical reactions, essential in the creation of new pharmaceutical drugs, by employing electricity.
• Molecular Interaction Challenges: A significant part of the research addresses the complex nature of electrochemistry. It focuses on the difficulties in understanding how molecules interact in the presence of an electrode, necessary for generating electricity.
• Role of Electrode Surface: Under the leadership of Anna Wuttig, UChicago Neubauer Family Assistant Professor, the research concentrated on the catalytic role of the electrode’s surface. However, mastering control over these molecular interactions remains a challenge.
• Experimental Breakthrough: The researchers worked with a reaction type that connects two carbon atoms—a common process in medicinal chemistry. Theoretically, this reaction should convert all molecules into a new substance at a 100% yield when electricity is used. But, laboratory experiments indicated lower yields.
• Innovative Solution: The discrepancy was attributed to the electrode altering the desired location of some molecules during the reaction. Adding a Lewis acid to the solution effectively redirected the molecules, leading to almost complete reactions.
• Towards Sustainable Synthesis: This finding is not just a step forward in sustainable chemical synthesis but also offers insights into the electrode’s influence on chemical reactions. The electrode’s reusability in subsequent reactions, instead of losing the catalyst in purification, marks a considerable advancement towards environmentally friendly synthesis.

Funding and Contributions:

• The study was funded by the National Science Foundation, the University of Chicago, and the National Institutes of Health.
• The leading author of the paper is postdoctoral researcher Qiu-Cheng Chen, with notable contributions from undergraduate students Sarah Kress and Rocco Molinelli.

Impact on Global Manufacturing:

• This study heralds a shift towards greener chemistry and is poised to significantly influence the global manufacturing network. As the world transitions from gas to electricity as a cleaner energy source, this research aligns with the broader movement toward more sustainable industrial practices.