Molecules | Special Issue : Catalysis for Drug Discovery (mdpi.com)

Dear Colleagues,

Despite breakthroughs, synthetic methodologies have changed the way scientists think about designing and making molecules. Organic synthesis is still a rate-limiting factor in drug-discovery processes. Significant challenges arise from the fact that drug molecules usually involve complex structures, polar sensitive groups, and multiple stereocenters. Moreover, there is an increasing need for new reactions that enable non-traditional disconnections and provide opportunities for increasing efficiency and reducing the cost of building novel molecules. Therefore, it is crucial to develop new catalytic strategies for organic synthesis guided by the connotations of drug discovery.

The goal of this Special Issue is to collect original research papers and review articles devoted to all aspects of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis for drug discovery, including metal catalysis, organocatalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, asymmetric catalysis, and biocatalysis. Submission of manuscripts describing attractive catalytic technologies, such as “escape from flatland”, molecular editing, C–H bond activation, C–C or C–X bond cross-coupling, and late-stage functionalization, are also encouraged.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Deyun Qian
Guest Editor