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Innovative Chemical Technique Could Accelerate Drug Discovery and Create Sustainable Materials
A novel technique, phosphorus fluoride exchange (PFEx), has been developed by scientists, broadening the applications of click chemistry through the incorporation of phosphorous as a chemical linkage for the construction of intricate molecules. This breakthrough could aid in the exploration of potent cancer treatments and the fabrication of innovative materials possessing advantageous attributes such as flame resistance or antimicrobial capacities. Furthermore, this method ensures environmental sustainability, since phosphorous bonds can be conveniently disintegrated during recycling processes.
Professor John Moses from the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and his team believe that diversity in molecular investigation enhances the possibility of valuable discoveries. Their recent progress in PFEx enables the quick assembly of a wide array of complex molecules, potentially yielding novel and effective cancer therapeutics.
In collaboration with K. Barry Sharpless, a two-time Nobel laureate, Moses’ laboratory has introduced PFEx, a transformative chemical process, into the repertoire of click chemistry. This technique assembles molecular building blocks to form new entities efficiently and reliably, with phosphorous acting as a chemical bridge, mimicking biological systems.
Shoujun Sun, a postdoctoral fellow in Moses’ laboratory, spearheaded a recent study marking a significant advancement in the field of click chemistry.
Phosphorous, vital in cellular structures like DNA and energy-storing molecules, serves as a versatile chemical bridge. It is capable of linking multiple chemical groups, creating unique three-dimensional configurations. Moses emphasizes the significance of phosphorous in biological interactions, hence its crucial role in drug development.
Now, with the use of PFEx, chemists can connect diverse chemical elements around a single phosphorous hub, resulting in even more complex molecular structures. According to Joshua Homer, a CSHL Research Investigator, this approach unlocks novel chemical spaces and consequently, new functionalities.
The PFEx methodology promises speedy and reliable assembly of intricate molecules via sustainable lab science, demonstrating compatibility with other click chemistry bonds, including the Nobel prize-winning CuAAC reactions of 2022.
Moses’ team speculates that PFEx reactions could facilitate drug-target interactions within the body. The team is currently exploring PFEx for potential cancer treatments. One advantage of this approach is the ability to tailor the reactivity of PFEx-involved molecules, ensuring the specific interaction of potential drugs with their intended targets, thereby minimizing the risk of side effects.
The team is optimistic that their novel click chemistry variant will enable the development of materials with desirable features. For instance, PFEx could be used to incorporate flame retardants or antimicrobials into new surfaces. Moreover, Moses notes that PFEx materials could offer an edge over existing “forever chemicals” because phosphorous bonds are not overly stable, enabling easy breakdown during recycling.
This study was supported by various organizations, including the National Cancer Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Northwell Health, the F. M. Kirby Foundation, the Sunshine Foundation, S. J. Edwards, the Starr Foundation, The Wasily Family Foundation, La Trobe University, and the National Institutes of Health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Phosphorus Fluoride Exchange (PFEx)
What is Phosphorus Fluoride Exchange (PFEx)?
PFEx is a novel chemical technique developed by scientists that uses phosphorous as a chemical connector to construct complex molecules. It’s an expansion of the applications of click chemistry.
How can PFEx contribute to cancer therapeutics?
PFEx facilitates the rapid and reliable assembly of a variety of complex molecules. Among these, there is a high potential of discovering new and effective treatments for cancer. Furthermore, PFEx allows for tailoring the reactivity of molecules, ensuring potential drugs interact only with their intended targets, which could minimize side effects.
Can PFEx contribute to creating new materials?
Yes, the researchers believe PFEx could help create materials with useful properties. Examples include incorporating flame retardants or antimicrobials into new surfaces.
How does PFEx support environmental sustainability?
PFEx uses phosphorous bonds that can be broken down easily when a product is ready for recycling. This ensures environmental sustainability, offering an advantage over the overly stable “forever chemicals” found in many of today’s products.
Who funded the study on PFEx?
The study on PFEx was funded by various organizations, including the National Cancer Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Northwell Health, the F. M. Kirby Foundation, the Sunshine Foundation, S. J. Edwards, the Starr Foundation, The Wasily Family Foundation, La Trobe University, and the National Institutes of Health.
More about Phosphorus Fluoride Exchange (PFEx)
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
- National Cancer Institute
- Northwell Health
- F. M. Kirby Foundation
- National Institutes of Health
- La Trobe University
- Click Chemistry Introduction
- About PFEx study in Chem Journal