Prof. Greg Challis, University of Warwick, UK

Elucidating and exploiting novel biosynthetic C-H functionalization reactions

Joint Biochemistry/Organic Divisions Seminar

The selective functionalization of C-H bonds is a “holy grail” of chemistry that is attracting considerable current interest. The biosynthetic pathways to numerous bioactive natural products involve highly selective C-H functionalization reactions that are difficult or impossible to mimic using man-made catalysts. The discovery and mechanistic investigation of novel enzymes that mediate remarkable C-H functionalization reactions in the biosynthesis of antimalarial and phytotoxic natural products will be described. Efforts to exploit these enzymes for the production of novel natural product analogues will be summarised.

For more information please contact Prof. Wendy Kelly (404-385-1154).