Author
Listed:
- René R. E. Steendam
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Jorge M. M. Verkade
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Tim J. B. van Benthem
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Hugo Meekes
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Willem J. P. van Enckevort
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Jan Raap
(Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55)
- Floris P. J. T. Rutjes
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
- Elias Vlieg
(Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135)
Abstract
The synthesis of enantiopure molecules from achiral precursors without the need for pre-existing chirality is a major challenge associated with the origin of life. We here show that an enantiopure product can be obtained from achiral starting materials in a single organic reaction. An essential characteristic of this reaction is that the chiral product precipitates from the solution, introducing a crystal–solution interface which functions as an asymmetric autocatalytic system that provides sufficient chiral amplification to reach an enantiopure end state. This approach not only provides more insight into the origin of life but also offers a pathway to acquire enantiopure compounds for industrial applications.
Suggested Citation
René R. E. Steendam & Jorge M. M. Verkade & Tim J. B. van Benthem & Hugo Meekes & Willem J. P. van Enckevort & Jan Raap & Floris P. J. T. Rutjes & Elias Vlieg, 2014.
"Emergence of single-molecular chirality from achiral reactants,"
Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 5(1), pages 1-5, December.
Handle:
RePEc:nat:natcom:v:5:y:2014:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms6543
DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6543
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