1,3-Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanediyl: The Shortest Rigid Linear Connector of Phenylated Photochromic Units and a 1,5-Dimethoxy-9,10-di(phenylethynyl)anthracene Fluorophore

Crystal-Structure Control of Molecular Semiconductors by Methylthiolation: Toward Ultrahigh Mobility

ConspectusThe crystal structure of organic semiconductors has been regarded as one of the crucial factors for realizing high-performance electronic devices, such as organic field-effect transistors. However, although the control of crystal structures of organic semiconductors has been examined in the last two decades of intensive efforts of the development of organic semiconductors, active measures to control crystal structures enabling high carrier mobility are still limited. In 2016, our research group noticed that regioselective methylthiolation could provide a selective crystal structure change from an ordinary herringbone structure to a pitched π-stacking structure, similar to the crystal structure of rubrene, in the benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b']dithiophene (BDT) system. Following this serendipitous finding, our group systematically investigated the relationship between the molecular and crystal structures of a range of methylthiolated aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds.This Account provides a comprehensive overview of our research efforts and advancements in the development of methylthiolated small-molecule-based organic semiconductors (molecular semiconductors). We first describe the outline of the past development of molecular semiconductors, focusing on the types of crystal structures of high-performance molecular semiconductors. Then, we describe our findings on the drastic crystal structure change in the BDT system upon methylthiolation, detailing the causes of the change in terms of the intermolecular contacts and intermolecular interaction energies. This is followed by the confirmation of the generality of the crystal-structure change by methylthiolation of a series of acene and heteroacenes, where the herringbone structure in the parent system is unexceptionally transformed into the pitched π-stacking structure, a promising crystal structure for high-mobility molecular semiconductors well exemplified by the prototypical molecular semiconductor, rubrene. In fact, the methylthiolated anthradithiophene afforded comparable high mobility to rubrene in single-crystal field-effect transistors. Then, we demonstrate that the sandwich herringbone structures of peri-condensed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, including pyrene, perylene, and peropyrene, change into brickwork crystal structures upon methylthiolation and that, among these compounds, very promising molecular semiconductors, methylthiolated pyrene and peropyrene, showing ultrahigh mobility of 30 cm2 V s-1, are realized.Through the studies, by gaining insights into the underlying mechanisms driving the crystal structure changes, we lay a strong foundation for tackling challenges related to controlling the crystal structures and developing high-performance molecular semiconductors. This will be a distinct approach from the past activities in the development of molecular semiconductors that mainly focused on molecules themselves, including their synthesis, properties, and characterization. We thus anticipate that our findings and the present Account will open the door to a new era of the development of molecular semiconductors.

Synthesis of 1,3-disubstituted bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes by cross-coupling induced by transition metals - formation of C-C bonds

The synthesis of 1,3-disubstituted bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs), by forming a C-C bond, can be achieved by cross-coupling reactions using transition metal catalysts. Two main strategies are described to access these 1,3-disubstituted BCPs, either from nucleophilic BCPs or electrophilic BCPs. Mechanisms are included where relevant.

Bis(thienyl)ethenes with α-methoxymethyl groups. Syntheses, spectroscopic Hammett plots, and stabilities in PMMA films

A series of bis(thienyl)ethenes (BTEs) possessing perfluorocyclopentene backbones and methoxymethyl groups (MOM) in the 2/2'-positions of the thiophenes was prepared and examined. The substitution pattern of the 5/5'-positions was varied, covering the range from electron-donating to electron-withdrawing. The substituent effects of the absorption wavelengths of the ring-opened and the ring-closed isomers, which are interconverted by reversible 6π-electrocyclizations and cycloreversions, are studied by means of the spectroscopic Hammett equation and the Hammett-Brown equation. Excellent correlations of these linear free energy relationships were found, when the σp values of the Hammett equation, which summarize inductive, mesomeric and field effects, were replaced to the Hammett-Brown σp+ and σp- values which also take direct conjugation into account. We studied solvent effects on the spectroscopic properties and embedded the BTEs into polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) coatings to examine their fatigue resistance. By our studies, the spectroscopic properties of BTEs can be adjusted by variation of the substitution pattern to a desired excitation wavelength for switching processes.

Kinetic Analysis of the Photochemical Paths in Asymmetric Diarylethene Dimer

An asymmetric diarylethene dimer composed of 2- and 3-thienylethene units linked by m-phenylene developed various colors upon UV irradiation via an independent photochromic reaction on each unit. The change in contents and the other photoresponses of the photogenerated four isomers were analyzed using quantum yield for all the possible photochemical paths, i. e., photoisomerization, fluorescence, energy transfer, and the other non-radiative paths. Almost all the rate constants of photochemical paths were calculated using measurable quantum yields and lifetimes. It was found that a significant contribution on photoresponse was the competition between photoisomerization and intramolecular energy transfer. The clear difference was observed in the photoresponses of the dimer and the 1 : 1 mixture solution of the model compounds. The m-phenylene spacer appropriately regulated the rate of energy transfer in the asymmetric dimer, and the spacer enabled isolation of the excited state of the dimer, making the above quantitative analysis possible.

Radical Acylation of [1.1.1]Propellane with Aldehydes: Synthesis of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane Ketones

Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs) are widely utilized in drug design as sp³-rich bioisosteres for tert-butyl, internal alkynes, and aryl groups. A general and mild method for radical acylation of [1.1.1]propellane with aldehydes has been developed. The protocol provides straightforward access to bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane ketones with a broad substrate scope. The synthetic utility of this methodology is demonstrated by the late-stage modification of bioactive molecules and the versatile transformation of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane ketones, making it useful for drug discovery.

Bridge Functionalisation of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane Derivatives

"Escaping from flatland", by increasing the saturation level and three-dimensionality of drug-like compounds, can enhance their potency, selectivity and pharmacokinetic profile. One approach that has attracted considerable recent attention is the bioisosteric replacement of aromatic rings, internal alkynes and tert-butyl groups with bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) units. While functionalisation of the tertiary bridgehead positions of BCP derivatives is well-documented, functionalisation of the three concyclic secondary bridge positions remains an emerging field. The unique properties of the BCP core present considerable synthetic challenges to the development of such transformations. However, the bridge positions provide novel vectors for drug discovery and applications in materials science, providing entry to novel chemical and intellectual property space. This Minireview aims to consolidate the major advances in the field, serving as a useful reference to guide further work that is expected in the coming years.

Photo-cycloreversion mechanism in diarylethenes revisited: A multireference quantum-chemical study at the ODM2/MRCI level

Photoswitchable diarylethenes (DAEs), over years of intense fundamental and applied research, have been established among the most commonly chosen molecular photoswitches, often employed as controlling units in molecular devices and smart materials. At the same time, providing reliable explanation for their photophysical behavior, especially the mechanism of the photo-cycloreversion transformation, turned out to be a highly challenging task. Herein, we investigate this mechanism in detail by means of multireference semi-empirical quantum chemistry calculations, allowing, for the first time, for a balanced treatment of the static and dynamic correlation effects, both playing a crucial role in DAE photochemistry. In the course of our study, we find the second singlet excited state of double electronic-excitation character to be the key to understanding the nature of the photo-cycloreversion transformation in DAE molecular photoswitches.

Synthetic Advances in the C–H Activation of Rigid Scaffold Molecules

The remarkable structural and electronic properties of rigid non-conjugated hydrocarbons afford attractive opportunities to design molecular building blocks for both medicinal and material applications. The bridgehead positions provide the possibility to append diverse functional groups at specific angles and in specific orientations. The current review summarizes the synthetic development in CH functionalization of three rigid scaffolds namely: (a) cubane, (b) bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP), (c) adamantane.

1 Introduction

2 Cubane

2.1 Cubane Synthesis

2.2 Cubane Functionalization

3 Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP)

3.1 BCP Synthesis

3.2 BCP Functionalization

4 Adamantane

4.1 Adamantane Synthesis

4.2 Adamantane Functionalization

5 Conclusions and Outlook

Towards triptycene functionalization and triptycene-linked porphyrin arrays

Herein, 9,10-diethynyltriptycene is investigated for its use as a rigid isolating unit in the synthesis of multichromophoric arrays. Sonogashira cross-coupling conditions are utilized to attach various porphyrins and boron dipyrromethenes (BODIPYs) to the triptycene scaffold. While there are previous examples of triptycene porphyrin complexes, this work reports the first example of a linearly connected porphyrin dimer, linked through the bridgehead carbons of triptycene. Symmetric and unsymmetric examples of these complexes are demonstrated and single crystal X-ray analysis of an unsymmetrically substituted porphyrin dimer highlights the evident linearity in these systems. Moreover, initial UV-vis and fluorescence studies show the promise of triptycene as a linker for electron transfer studies, showcasing its isolating nature.

Rationalizing the diverse reactivity of [1.1.1]propellane through σ-π-delocalization

[1.1.1]Propellane is the ubiquitous precursor to bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs), motifs of high value in pharmaceutical and materials research. The classical Lewis representation of this molecule places an inter-bridgehead C-C bond along its central axis; 'strain relief'-driven cleavage of this bond is commonly thought to enable reactions with nucleophiles, radicals and electrophiles. We propose that this broad reactivity profile instead derives from σ-π-delocalization of electron density in [1.1.1]propellane. Using ab initio and DFT calculations, we show that its reactions with anions and radicals are facilitated by increased delocalization of electron density over the propellane cage during addition, while reactions with cations involve charge transfer that relieves repulsion inside the cage. These results provide a unified framework to rationalize experimental observations of propellane reactivity, opening up opportunities for the exploration of new chemistry of [1.1.1]propellane and related strained systems that are useful building blocks in organic synthesis.

Bridging and Conformational Control of Porphyrin Units through Non-Traditional Rigid Scaffolds

Connecting two porphyrin units in a rigid linear fashion, without any undesired electron delocalization or communication between the chromophores, remains a synthetic challenge. Herein, a broad library of functionally diverse multi-porphyrin arrays that incorporate the non-traditional rigid linker groups cubane and bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) is described. A robust, reliable, and versatile synthetic procedure was employed to access porphyrin-cubane/BCP-porphyrin arrays, representing the largest non-polymeric structures available for cubane/BCP derivatives. These reactions demonstrate considerable substrate scope, from utilization of small phenyl moieties to large porphyrin rings, with varying lengths and different angles. To control conformational flexibility, amide bonds were introduced between the bridgehead carbon of BCP/cubane and the porphyrin rings. Through varying the orientation of the substituents around the amide bond of cubane/BCP, different intermolecular interactions were identified through single crystal X-ray analysis. These studies revealed non-covalent interactions that are the first-of-their-kind including a unique iodine-oxygen interaction between cubane units. These supramolecular architectures indicate the possibility to mimic a protein structure due to the sp3 rigid scaffolds (BCP or cubane) that exhibit the essential conformational space for protein function while simultaneously providing amide bonds for molecular recognition.

Insertion of [1.1.1]propellane into aromatic disulfides

Herein we present the synthesis of symmetrically and unsymmetrically substituted 1,3-bissulfanylbicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes from disulfides and [1.1.1]propellane. Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs) recently gained interest as rigid linkers and as bioisosters of para-substituted benzene and alkyne moieties. The most promising precursor for BCPs is [1.1.1]propellane (1). The available methods to synthesize BCPs are quite limited and many groups contribute to the development of novel methods. The insertion of 1 into disulfide bonds is known, but has never been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we show that an UV initiated radical reaction can be used to synthesize symmetrically and unsymmetrically substituted BCP sulfides by reaction of [1.1.1]propellane (1) with disulfides. Depending on the ratio of 1 to the disulfide, only the BCP product (with up to 98% yield) or a mixture of BCP and [2]staffane can be obtained. The reaction tolerates functional groups such as halogens, alkyl and methoxy groups. The separation of the corresponding BCP and [2]staffane products is challenging but possible by column chromatography and preparative TLC in most cases. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the rod-like structure of the [2]staffanes that is often required in material applications.

A Selective Synthesis of 2,2-Difluorobicyclo[1.1.1]pentane Analogues: "BCP-F2"

The bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) motif has been utilized as bioisosteres in drug candidates to replace phenyl, tert-butyl, and alkynyl fragments in order to improve physicochemical properties. However, bceause of the difficulty of synthesis, most BCP analogues prepared only bear 1,3-"para"-substituents. We report the first selective synthesis of 2,2-difluorobicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes via difluorocarbene insertion into bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes. Moreover, this methodology should inspire future studies on synthesis of other "ortho/meta-substituted" BCPs via similar mechanisms.

Nonconjugated Hydrocarbons as Rigid-Linear Motifs: Isosteres for Material Sciences and Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry

Nonconjugated hydrocarbons, like bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane, bicyclo[2.2.2]octane, triptycene, and cubane are a unique class of rigid linkers. Due to their similarity in size and shape they are useful mimics of classic benzene moieties in drugs, so-called bioisosteres. Moreover, they also fulfill an important role in material sciences as linear linkers, in order to arrange various functionalities in a defined spatial manner. In this Review article, recent developments and usages of these special, rectilinear systems are discussed. Furthermore, we focus on covalently linked, nonconjugated linear arrangements and discuss the physical and chemical properties and differences of individual linkers, as well as their application in material and medicinal sciences.

A radical exchange process: synthesis of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane derivatives of xanthates

A new approach for the installation of the bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane unit on the xanthate moiety by means of a radical exchange process.

Regiocontrolled Halogen Dance of Bromothiophenes and Bromofurans

The LDA (lithium diisopropylamide)-promoted regiocontrolled halogen dance of α-bromothiophenes and α-bromofurans is described. Bromothiophenes bearing a diethyl acetal moiety undergo selective deprotonation at the β-position adjacent to the bromo group. In contrast, oxazoline, ester, and amide groups act as directing groups in the initial lithiation step to generate a carbanion at the β-position neighboring the directing group to exclusively give the other regioisomer. These results can be applied to the regiocontrolled halogen dance of bromofuran derivatives.

Synthesis of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane Bioisosteres of Internal Alkynes and para-Disubstituted Benzenes from [1.1.1]Propellane

We report a general preparation of arylated bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes through the opening of [1.1.1]propellane with various arylmagnesium halides. After transmetalation with ZnCl₂ and Negishi cross-coupling with aryl and heteroaryl halides, bis-arylated bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes are obtained. These bis-arylated bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes may be considered as bioisosteres of internal alkynes. Bioisosteres of tazarotene and the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antagonist 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine were prepared and their physicochemical properties were evaluated.

Propellanes-From a Chemical Curiosity to "Explosive" Materials and Natural Products

Propellanes are a unique class of compounds currently consisting of well over 10 000 representatives, all featuring two more or less inverted tetrahedral carbon atoms that are common to three bridging rings. The central single bond between the two bridgeheads is significantly weakened in the smaller entities, which leads to unusual reactivities of these structurally interesting propeller-like molecules. This Review highlights the synthesis of such propellanes and their occurrence in material sciences, natural products, and medicinal chemistry. The conversion of [1.1.1]propellane into bridgehead derivatives of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane, including oligomers and polymers with bicyclo[1.1.1]penta-1,3-diyl repeat units, is also featured. A selection of natural products with larger propellane subunits are discussed in detail. Heteropropellanes and inorganic propellanes are also addressed. The historical background is touched in brief to show the pioneering work of David Ginsburg, Günther Snatzke, Kenneth B. Wiberg, Günter Szeimies, and others.

Strain-Release Heteroatom Functionalization: Development, Scope, and Stereospecificity

Driven by the ever-increasing pace of drug discovery and the need to push the boundaries of unexplored chemical space, medicinal chemists are routinely turning to unusual strained bioisosteres such as bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane, azetidine, and cyclobutane to modify their lead compounds. Too often, however, the difficulty of installing these fragments surpasses the challenges posed even by the construction of the parent drug scaffold. This full account describes the development and application of a general strategy where spring-loaded, strained C–C and C–N bonds react with amines to allow for the “any-stage” installation of small, strained ring systems. In addition to the functionalization of small building blocks and late-stage intermediates, the methodology has been applied to bioconjugation and peptide labeling. For the first time, the stereospecific strain-release “cyclopentylation” of amines, alcohols, thiols, carboxylic acids, and other heteroatoms is introduced. This report describes the development, synthesis, scope of reaction, bioconjugation, and synthetic comparisons of four new chiral “cyclopentylation” reagents.

Preparation of brominated 2-alkoxythiophenes via oxidation and etherification of 2-thienyltrifluoroborate salts

The synthesis of ring brominated long-chain 2-alkoxythiophenes is reported, involving mild (Oxone) oxidation of readily prepared 2-thienyltrifluoroborate salts followed by Mitsunobu etherification. Both procedures are operationally straightforward and use inexpensive reagents. Using this approach, several novel mono- and dibrominated octyloxythiophenes with previously elusive substitution patterns were prepared. One such compound was elaborated to a novel 5-alkoxythieno[3,2-b]thiophene-2-carboxylate ester, marking the first synthetic entry into this family of compounds.

Photoactivatable Fluorophores

Photoactivatable fluorophores switch from a nonemissive to an emissive state upon illumination at an activating wavelength and then emit after irradiation at an exciting wavelength. The interplay of such activation and excitation events can be exploited to switch fluorescence on in a defined region of space at a given interval of time. In turn, the spatiotemporal control of fluorescence translates into the opportunity to implement imaging and spectroscopic schemes that are not possible with conventional fluorophores. Specifically, photoactivatable fluorophores permit the monitoring of dynamic processes in real time as well as the reconstruction of images with subdiffraction resolution. These promising applications can have a significant impact on the characterization of the structures and functions of biomolecular systems. As a result, strategies to implement mechanisms for fluorescence photoactivation with synthetic fluorophores are particularly valuable. In fact, a number of versatile operating principles have already been identified to activate the fluorescence of numerous members of the main families of synthetic dyes. These methods are based on either the irreversible cleavage of covalent bonds or the reversible opening and closing of rings. This paper overviews the fundamental mechanisms that govern the behavior of these photoresponsive systems, illustrates structural designs for fluorescence photoactivation, and provides representative examples of photoactivatable fluorophores in actions.