Research Overview
We mainly focus on the two major areas of research Synthesis/functionalization of heterocyclic compounds using carbene chemistry
Carbenes, characterized by a neutral divalent carbon atom housing six electrons within its valence shell, emerge as crucial and dynamic reactive intermediates within the realm of organic chemistry. Their propensity for diverse and selective reactivity renders them indispensable in the synthesis of intricate molecular structures. In recent years, significant attention has been directed toward leveraging diazo compounds or their analogues as primary sources of carbene functionality within reaction environments. These compounds, rich in potential carbene precursors, have garnered considerable interest due to their versatility and ability to facilitate controlled and efficient transformations. Within this dynamic landscape, our research endeavors are firmly grounded in the exploration and development of novel transition metal-catalyzed cascade reactions. These transformative processes capitalize on the unique properties of diazo compounds, serving as precursors for carbene species, thus enabling the streamlined synthesis of N-heterocycles. Through the strategic integration of transition metal catalysts, we aim to orchestrate intricate cascade reactions, unlocking new pathways toward the efficient construction of diverse heterocyclic motifs.
By harnessing the synergistic interplay between transition metal catalysis and diazo compound chemistry, our work seeks to push the boundaries of synthetic methodology, offering innovative solutions for the rapid assembly of complex molecular architectures. Through meticulous experimentation and creative design, we aspire to contribute to the advancement of organic synthesis, offering practical and sustainable strategies for the construction of biologically relevant N-heterocycles.
B) Exploring the enzymes for catalyzing novel organic transformations
Biocatalysis, the utilization of enzymes to catalyse chemical reactions, stands as a potent and environmentally friendly tool that has significantly influenced the pharmaceutical industry. This field garners immense interest among synthetic chemists for several compelling reasons. Firstly, enzymes exhibit remarkable chemo-, regio-, and stereo-selectivity, enabling precise control over reaction outcomes without the need for cumbersome protection or deprotection steps common in traditional chemical synthesis. Moreover, enzymes serve as cost-effective and biodegradable catalysts, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. Besides, enzymes can catalyse multiple steps within a single reaction vessel, eliminating the need for intermediate purification steps, and thereby streamlining synthetic processes. Additionally, advancements in protein engineering and computational methods allow for the modification of enzyme protein sequences to enhance reactivity and selectivity in chemical transformations. Our research group is at the forefront of this burgeoning field, harnessing heme-containing or hydrolase enzymes to pioneer novel biocatalytic transformations.
Moreover, we are exploring the integration of biocatalysis with electrochemical or chemical catalysis in a one-pot fashion. This innovative approach aims to synergistically combine the advantages of enzymatic, electrochemical, or chemical catalysis to develop sustainable and selective methodologies for the synthesis of organic molecules. By merging these diverse catalytic modalities, we strive to establish efficient and environmentally benign strategies for organic synthesis, contributing to the advancement of green chemistry principles.
Research Grants:
(Ongoing grants)
1. A combined experimental and computational investigation of abiotic bio-transformations: Application in the sustainable and highly selective synthesis of indole-based drugs or their precursors; SERB-Core research grant, 2021-2024.
2. Experimental and computational investigation towards the synthesis of novel indole-based scaffolds and their biological evaluation, CEEMS-TIET research grant, 2023-2026.
(Completed grants)
1. Optimization of the myoglobin enzyme production and development of biocatalytic cyclopropanation process for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals precursors”; DBT-BIRAC (PACE), (joint project with Dr. Priyanka Bajaj, IMTech, Chandigarh) 2020-2021.
2. Development of enzyme-based catalyst for accessing non-natural activities; DST, 2018- 2023.
3. Amylase catalyzes non-natural organic reactions, TIET Seed-grant, 2020-2022.
4. Construction of enzyme-metal hybrid catalysts for concurrent chemo-enzymatic reactions, CEEMS-TIET Seed grant, 2021-2022.