Dynamic covalent chemistry enables remote C-H changes on alkaloids
Official title: Dynamic Covalent Strategies for the Remote C-H Functionalization of Alkaloids
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-11428533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new method uses special temporary directing groups to modify hard-to-reach parts of alkaloid molecules, potentially expanding how these natural-product-derived compounds are customized.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $380,870 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM165588-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11428533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include patients whose conditions could benefit from new alkaloid-based therapies or derivatives developed through these methods.
✕Less likely to help
If a patient’s condition does not respond to alkaloid-derived therapeutics or the specific compounds studied, direct benefit may be limited.
What this research studies
This grant focuses on developing trityl-based transient directing groups to enable remote C-H functionalization of amine-containing alkaloids, including cyclic and polycyclic scaffolds. The approach combines photoredox or Pd-based mechanisms to activate distant C–H bonds and make precise substitutions. The work aims to create versatile tools for late-stage diversification of alkaloid cores, opening pathways for semi-synthesis of medicinally relevant compounds. Researchers will test these methods on challenging scaffolds like morphinanes and lysergamides to broaden the chemical space available for drug development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide new ways to tailor natural-product-derived medicines, potentially speeding drug discovery and optimization.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows progress in C–H functionalization, but remote/transannular activation remains challenging and this project seeks novel capabilities.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Michael C — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Young, Michael C
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.