Molecule of the Month
March 2004
Design and Synthesis of Small Drug-Like Molecules

Diversity-oriented oligomerization of hydroxyaromatic aldehydes and ketones by oxime and ether bond formation leads to a diversity of drug-like molecules. The crystal structure of an ether oligomer is shown above. Micromolar inhibitors of proteases were readily discovered in a 140-member library. These new class of compounds are promising leads for drug discovery.

This work was carried out in the group of Prof. Jean-Louis Reymond.

References:

  • O. Renaudet, J.-L. Reymond;
    "Iterative Oxime Bond Chemistry Leads to Protease Inhibitors"
    Org. Lett., 5, 4693-4696, (2003); doi:10.1021/ol035867r.
  • O. Renaudet, J.-L. Reymond;
    "Synthesis of Ether Oligomers"
    Org. Lett., 6, 397-400, (2004); doi:10.1021/ol036300d.