Synthesis of RHPS4 via an anionic ring closing cascade

Heterocyclic Nanographenes and Other Polycyclic Heteroaromatic Compounds: Synthetic Routes, Properties, and Applications

Two-dimensionally extended, polycyclic heteroaromatic molecules (heterocyclic nanographenes) are a highly versatile class of organic materials, applicable as functional chromophores and organic semiconductors. In this Review, we discuss the rich chemistry of large heteroaromatics, focusing on their synthesis, electronic properties, and applications in materials science. This Review summarizes the historical development and current state of the art in this rapidly expanding field of research, which has become one of the key exploration areas of modern heterocyclic chemistry.

Total synthesis of ascididemin via anionic cascade ring closure

A new and convergent synthesis of ascididemin is presented. Using an anionic cascade ring closure as the key step, this natural product is obtained in 45% overall yield in just 6 steps starting from 2'-fluoroacetophenone. This new approach was extended to the synthesis of a new isomer of ascididemin.

Targeting the telomere and shelterin complex for cancer therapy: current views and future perspectives

Aberrant telomere homeostasis is essential for cell immortality, enabling cells to evade telomere dependent senescence. Disruption of telomere structure and function in cancer cells is highly toxic as shown by detailed pre-clinical evaluation of telomerase inhibitors. Under telomerase inhibition, cells must divide sufficiently frequently to allow one or more telomeres to shorten to an unprotected length. Functioning telomeres are disguised from the DNA damage machinery by DNA remodelling and other activities of the telomere binding complex shelterin. Direct interference with shelterin has been shown to result in cell killing and small molecules directly targeting telomere DNA also have anti-tumour effects partially dependent on shelterin disruption. However, shelterin components have not generally been regarded as therapeutic targets in their own right. In this review, we explore the possibilities for therapeutic targeting of the shelterin complex.