Selected publications and reviews about our research topics can be found here.

Unprecedented strategies for accessing functionalized cyclobutenes

A part of our research focuses on unprecedented strategies to access enantioenriched alkylidenecyclobutanes (ACBs) and cyclobutenes (CBs). Stereospecific boron-homologations and stereoselective allylborations have been successfully combined into a single-pot sequence to generate targeted molecules with up to 99% ee.

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Selective synthesis of Azetines and Thietes

Azetidines, oxetanes and thietanes have demonstrated their potential as core motifs in medicinal chemistry. Our objective was to make these motifs easily accessible. Through new and innovative strategies, we aim to elaborate unique methodologies that will allow for a high degree of functionalization.

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Expedient routes towards strained fused ring systems

In the course of our study on efficient strategies towards sophisticated alkylidenecyclobutanes, we found that fused ACBs – direct analogues of protoilludanes – were to possess anti-leukemia properties. A very simple but efficient route was designed to access these functionalized structures in high diastereomeric purities and requiring a single purification step.

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Boron-relayed C-C bond forming reactions – Novel organocerium species

Organolithium species show great efficiency in Zweifel olefinations. More functional group tolerant species such as organomagnesium are less efficient in this transformation. With an electronegativity value between lithium and magnesium, the abondant cerium atom was employed as a dependable alternative in the formation of organocerium species through unprecedented triple halogen-cerium exchanges.

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Boron-relayed C-C bond forming reactions – Extending the scope beyond Zweifel olefination

Inspired by Zweifel olefination, a new reaction path was envisioned. Organoborate salts were designed to allow for a catalyst-free electrocoupling reaction. The scope includes – so far – aryl-aryl, aryl-heteroaryl and olefin coupling reactions.

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