One of the major challenges in macrocycle synthesis by ring-closing metathesis (RCM) is limited selectivity due to competition between intramolecular and intermolecular pathways. Ruthenium-based metathesis catalysts immobilized inside the nanopores of the mesocellular siliceous foams (MCF) have been developed as highly selective and efficient catalysts for the formation of macrocycles, which are important targets in natural products synthesis and pharmaceutical industry. Catalytic activity and recyclability of these catalysts on ring closing metathesis (RCM) of macrocycles were demonstrated. The uniform nano-sized pores of MCF are proposed to render the beneficial selectivity towards the desired intramolecular pathway by accommodating the substrates in the confined space.

Highly efficient macrocycle formation by ruthenium-based metathesis catalysts fixated in nanopores

245th National Meeting (2013)

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