Chemoselective Reactions of Functionalized Sulfonyl Halides

Modular Assembly of Heterotrifunctional Molecules Enabled by Iodosulfonylation of Allenes and Subsequent Amination

Beyond the rapid achievements of therapeutic heterobifunctional molecules, some recent efforts have focused on constructing heterotrifunctional molecules, aiming at developing more potent and selective therapeutic agents or emerging additional functions to heterobifunctional molecules. However, the synthesis of these complex molecules requires a specific design and lengthy steps. We have developed a two-step strategy for the modular construction of heterotrifunctional molecules, enabled by the sustainable and convenient iodosulfonylation of allenes followed by SN2'-selective amination. This strategy successfully incorporates a broad range of biologically active molecules, labeling them with a fluorescent group. The applications of the obtained compounds in selective protein labeling, subcellular imaging, and targeted inhibition of tumor cells make this strategy highly appealing.

SNAr or Sulfonylation? Chemoselective Amination of Halo(het)arene Sulfonyl Halides for Synthetic Applications and Ultralarge Compound Library Design

The chemoselectivity of halo(het)arene sulfonyl halide aminations is studied thoroughly under parallel synthesis conditions, and the scope and limitations of the method are established. It is shown that SNAr-reactive sulfonyl halides typically undergo sulfonamide synthesis during the first step; the second amination is also possible provided that the SNAr-active center is sufficiently reactive. On the contrary, sulfonyl fluorides bearing an arylating moiety undergo selective transformation at the latter reactive center under proper control. Further sulfur-fluoride exchange (SuFEx) is also possible, which can be especially valuable for some sulfonyl halide classes. The developed two-step parallel double amination protocol provides access to a 6.67-billion compound synthetically tractable REAL-type chemical space (76% expected synthesis success rate).

Chemistry in Ukraine

In this special issue, we highlight recent advances in chemical research by scientists in Ukraine, as well as by their compatriots and collaborators outside the country. Besides spotlighting their contributions, we see our task in fostering global partnerships and multi-, inter-, and trans-disciplinary collaborations, including much-needed co-funded projects and initiatives. The three decades of the renewed Ukraine independence have seen rather limited integration of Ukrainian (chemical) science into global research communities.[1] At the same time, the recent surge of collaborative science initiatives between European Union (EU) and Ukraine echoes the unfolding steps towards Ukraine's full research participation to the Horizon Europe Program. This recently implemented step opens enormous possibilities for Ukrainian researchers to apply for diverse EU research grants. Moreover, a number of journal special issues and collections were launched to highlight Ukrainian chemistry (i. e., by Chemistry of Heterocyclic Compounds[2] and ChemistrySelect[3] ). Other scientific initiatives include 'European Chemistry School for Ukrainians'[4] and 'Kharkiv Chemical Seminar'[5] as voluntary projects aimed at engaging Ukrainian scientists into European and international chemical research.