Stereoselective Transformations of Vinyl Cyclic Carbonates and Applications in Natural Product Synthesis

Finding new strategies to forge carbon-carbon bonds has become fundamental to synthesize complex molecules rapidly and efficiently. This doctoral thesis aims to devise novel catalytic and stereoselective methods for the construction of such carbon-carbon bonds using vinyl cyclic carbonates as model substrates to build more elaborate molecules with potential application for the synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals. A highly (Z)-selective palladium-catalyzed allylation of nitroalkanes will be presented, which is utilized to examine the synthesis of biologically active indolizidine and quinolizidine natural products. In addition, a combined approach towards the allylation of aldehydes merging cobalt and photoredox catalysis will be introduced. The combined experimental results from this thesis showcase how vinyl cyclic carbonates can be effectively reacted under the influence of a transition metal catalyst to forge strategic carbon-carbon bonds that allow the synthesis of more elaborated intermediates and natural products. The extent of this work will help revitalize the use of such scaffolds in modern synthetic campaigns and method development.

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According to the last information received from ICIQ’s safety department about the measures to prevent and contain COVID-19 at ICIQ, a total of 50 people is now the maximum capacity allowed in the Auditorium, so the Thesis Defense will be finally held in the Auditorium as well as through ZOOM platform too.

For those who prefer to follow the ceremony in a virtual format, please remember that you should register here

For the ones who would like to attend the defense in the Auditorium, please fill in this registration form to be sure that we do not exceed the maximum capacity. (It will be assigned on a first-come/first served basis). We will confirm your acceptance through an e-mail as soon as possible after your registration.