Molecular machines as chiral catalysts

The Goldup Group have developed methods to synthesise and study a new type of chiral interlocked molecule and have successfully demonstrated using the unique sterics of these structures in asymmetric catalysis. The continued development of these structures is intended to deliver catalysts that take advantage of the interlocked structure to overcome current difficulties in the enantioselective synthesis of high value compounds (e.g. pharmaceuticals) using conventional coordination complex catalysts. The aim of this project is to develop next generation systems based on molecular machines, that will allow the controlled, stimuli-responsive synthesis of multiple stereoisomers based on an external input.