Biocatalytic C-C Bond Formation for One Carbon Resource Utilization

Iridium(III)-catalyzed photoredox cross-coupling of alkyl bromides with trialkyl amines: access to α-alkylated aldehydes

A C(sp3)-C(sp3) cross coupling approach based on an iridium-photocatalytic radical process has been developed enabling the synthesis of various α-alkylated aldehydes from easily available/synthesized alkyl bromides and trialkyl amines under mild photocatalytic conditions. The synthesized aldehydes are also explored as a functional handle for various useful products such as carboxylic acid, alcohol and N-heterocycle synthesis.

Algal carbohydrate polymers: Catalytic innovations for sustainable development

Algal polysaccharides, harnessed for their catalytic potential, embody a compelling narrative in sustainable chemistry. This review explores the complex domains of algal carbohydrate-based catalysis, revealing its diverse trajectory. Starting with algal polysaccharide synthesis and characterization methods as catalysts, the investigation includes sophisticated techniques like NMR spectroscopy that provide deep insights into the structural variety of these materials. Algal polysaccharides undergo various preparation and modification techniques to enhance their catalytic activity such as immobilization. Homogeneous catalysis, revealing its significance in practical applications like crafting organic compounds and facilitating chemical transformations. Recent studies showcase how algal-derived catalysts prove to be remarkably versatile, showcasing their ability to customise reactions for specific substances. Heterogeneous catalysis, it highlights the significance of immobilization techniques, playing a central role in ensuring stability and the ability to reuse catalysts. The practical applications of heterogeneous algal catalysts in converting biomass and breaking down contaminants, supported by real-life case studies, emphasize their effectiveness. In sustainable chemistry, algal polysaccharides emerge as compelling catalysts, offering a unique intersection of eco-friendliness, structural diversity, and versatile catalytic properties. Tackling challenges such as dealing with complex structural variations, ensuring the stability of the catalyst, and addressing economic considerations calls for out-of-the-box and inventive solutions. Embracing the circular economy mindset not only assures sustainable catalyst design but also promotes efficient recycling practices. The use of algal carbohydrates in catalysis stands out as a source of optimism, paving the way for a future where chemistry aligns seamlessly with nature, guiding us toward a sustainable, eco-friendly, and thriving tomorrow. This review encapsulates-structural insights, catalytic applications, challenges, and future perspectives-invoking a call for collective commitment to catalyze a sustainable scientific revolution.

Progress in research on the biosynthesis of 1,2,4-butanetriol by engineered microbes

1,2,4-butanetriol (BT) is a polyol with unique chemical properties, which has a stereocenter and can be divided into D-BT (the S-enantiomer) and L-BT (the R-enantiomer). BT can be used for the synthesis of 1,2,4-butanetriol trinitrate, 3-hydroxytetrahydrofuran, polyurethane, and other chemicals. It is widely used in the military industry, medicine, tobacco, polymer. At present, the BT is mainly synthesized by chemical methods, which are accompanied by harsh reaction conditions, poor selectivity, many by-products, and environmental pollution. Therefore, BT biosynthesis methods with the advantages of mild reaction conditions and green sustainability have become a current research hotspot. In this paper, the research status of microbial synthesis of BT was summarized from the following three aspects: (1) the biosynthetic pathway establishment for BT from xylose; (2) metabolic engineering strategies employed for improving BT production from xylose; (3) other substrates for BT production. Finally, the challenges and prospects of biosynthetic BT were discussed for future methods to improve competitiveness for industrial production.

Biocatalytic One-Carbon Transfer – A Review

This review provides an overview of different C1 building blocks as substrates of enzymes, or part of their cofactors, and the resulting­ functionalized products. There is an emphasis on the broad range of possibilities of biocatalytic one-carbon extensions with C1 sources of different oxidation states. The identification of uncommon biosynthetic strategies, many of which might serve as templates for synthetic or biotechnological applications, towards one-carbon extensions is supported by recent genomic and metabolomic progress and hence we refer principally to literature spanning from 2014 to 2020.

1 Introduction

2 Methane, Methanol, and Methylamine

3 Glycine

4 Nitromethane

5 SAM and SAM Ylide

6 Other C1 Building Blocks

7 Formaldehyde and Glyoxylate as Formaldehyde Equivalents

8 Cyanide

9 Formic Acid

10 Formyl-CoA and Oxalyl-CoA

11 Carbon Monoxide

12 Carbon Dioxide

13 Conclusions

In Situ Phase Separation into Coupled Interfaces for Promoting CO2 Electroreduction to Formate over a Wide Potential Window

Bimetallic sulfides are expected to realize efficient CO₂ electroreduction into formate over a wide potential window, however, they will undergo in situ structural evolution under the reaction conditions. Therefore, clarifying the structural evolution process, the real active site and the catalytic mechanism is significant. Here, taking Cu₂ SnS₃ as an example, we unveiled that Cu₂ SnS₃ occurred self-adapted phase separation toward forming the stable SnO₂ @CuS and SnO₂ @Cu₂ O heterojunction during the electrochemical process. Calculations illustrated that the strongly coupled interfaces as real active sites driven the electron self-flow from Sn⁴⁺ to Cu⁺ , thereby promoting the delocalized Sn sites to combine HCOO* with H*. Cu₂ SnS₃ nanosheets achieve over 83.4 % formate selectivity in a wide potential range from -0.6 V to -1.1 V. Our findings provide insight into the structural evolution process and performance-enhanced origin of ternary sulfides under the CO₂ electroreduction.