An‐T‐biotic : The first total synthesis of the T‐shaped bisanthraquinone natural product BE‐43472B was accomplished and its absolute configuration assigned. Key transformations in the pivotal cascade sequence include a Diels–Alder reaction, a hemiketal formation, and a nucleophilic aromatic ipso substitution.
The time is ripe : A general theoretical framework based on force‐transformed potential energy surfaces rationalizes the intriguing results of recent experiments in the emerging field of covalent mechanochemistry.
Hex nut : An emerging synthetic approach based on metal–organic coordination‐polymer templates has been used to fabricate micro‐ and nanoscale crystals. By using a diverse range of molecular building blocks coupled with conventional synthetic techniques, it is possible to synthesize ZnO crystals with tailored sizes, shapes (such as hexagonal rings; see figure), and surface properties.
Pepped up polymers : The synthesis and properties of novel chiral cyclic peptides designed to complex with suitable polymers through hydrogen bonding are described. A substituted cyclic peptide self‐assembles into supramolecular nanotubes and develops noncovalent interactions with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) by means of its carboxyl side chains.
Doing the hula twist? A photochemically stimulated inversion of an sp2‐hybridized oxygen atom upon simultaneous rotation of two adjacent bonds may be possible in a pure singlet excited potential energy surface in uninhibited fluid media (see scheme).
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are one of the most important classes of material in current chemistry. One open question is what is the mechanism of their crystal growth? In situ atomic force microscopy (see image) can be used to look at the surface of crystals as they grow, revealing a number of interesting features and giving clues to the molecular species that are important in the growth mechanism.
A real turn‐on : The emission intensity of heterocycle 1 increases upon binding to Pb2+. Thus, 1 acts as a small‐molecule “turn‐on” fluorescent sensor for lead. The sensor is highly selective and is functional over a wide range of pH values.
A polymer therapeutic designed for combination anticancer and antiangiogenic therapy inhibited the proliferation of prostate carcinoma cells and the proliferation, migration, and tube‐formation of endothelial cells. The nanoconjugate was formed from an N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA) copolymer, the bisphosphonate alendronate (for bone targeting), and the chemotherapy agent paclitaxel (PTX), which is cleaved by cathepsin B (see scheme).
