The focus of this research involves nine goals. Major aspects include: 1) synthesis of new, mixed selenium-, silicon-, sulfur-and tin-containing 4-6- and 8-10-membered rings; 2) synthesis of bicyclic 1,2-dichalcogenins; 3) sulfur-containing mouse semiochemicals, new (mercaptomethyl)silanes, and artifact formation with SPME fibers; 4) total synthesis of lentinic acid from shiitake mushrooms; 5) synthesis of biologically relevant 1,2-diselenolanes; 6) synthesis of 5-heterobicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes and 2-thiabicyclo-[1.1.0]butanes; 7) synthesis of selenium analogues of biologically active organosulfur compounds; 8) microwave characterization of small organoselenium compounds; 9) Allium chemistry: synthesis of optically active ajoene and S-2-fluoro-2-propenylthio derivatives.
With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Dr. Eric Block in the Department of Chemistry at SUNY at Albany. Professor Block will focus his work on seeking to answer fundamental questions relating to the chemistry of the elements sulfur and selenium, important constituents of biological systems. The project has broader impact in the pharmaceutical industry and in the area of human health. Further, the project is an excellent venue for the training of undergraduates, graduate students and postdoctoral colleagues.
