Bioorthogonal Transfer Hydrogenation Mediated by Small Molecule Catalyst

Background. Increasing threat of drug resistant diseases. Need of new therapeutic solutions. Most of the drugs available are either organic molecules or biologics. Inorganic metal complexes can undergo ligand exchange reaction. Metal centers exist in different oxidation states and form more than four bonds unlike carbon. Inorganic medicinal chemistry is underexplored. Goal. Engineer unprotected metal catalyst. Carry out bioorthogonal transfer hydrogenation. Challenges. Catalyst should be stable in water, air, biological pH and non toxic. Catalyst should be active in presence of cellular nucleophiles. Benefits. Catalytic drugs do not need in stoichiometric amount. New mechanism may overcome drug resistant problem.