Recent Journal Articles: Multidisciplinary Chemistry -- Neurotransmitter.net

Recent Articles in Chemical Reviews

Fontecilla-Camps JC, Volbeda A, Cavazza C, Nicolet Y
Structure/Function Relationships of [NiFe]- and [FeFe]-Hydrogenases. (Chem. Rev. 2007, 107, 4273-4303. Published on the Web September 13, 2007.).
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5411. [Abstract]

Huynh MH, Meyer TJ
Proton-coupled electron transfer.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5004-64. [Abstract]

Mezei G, Zaleski CM, Pecoraro VL
Structural and functional evolution of metallacrowns.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4933-5003. [Abstract]

Ghosh SK, Pal T
Interparticle coupling effect on the surface plasmon resonance of gold nanoparticles: from theory to applications.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4797-862. [Abstract]

Kamber NE, Jeong W, Waymouth RM, Pratt RC, Lohmeijer BG, Hedrick JL
Organocatalytic ring-opening polymerization.
Chem Rev. 2007 Dec;107(12):5813-40. [Abstract]

Akiyama T
Stronger br�nsted acids.
Chem Rev. 2007 Dec;107(12):5744-58. [Abstract]

Beccalli EM, Broggini G, Martinelli M, Sottocornola S
C-C, C-O, C-N bond formation on sp2 carbon by Pd(II)-catalyzed reactions involving oxidant agents.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5318-65. [Abstract]

Albu TV, Espinosa-Garc�a J, Truhlar DG
Computational chemistry of polyatomic reaction kinetics and dynamics: the quest for an accurate CH5 potential energy surface.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5101-32. [Abstract]

Busca G
Acid catalysts in industrial hydrocarbon chemistry.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5366-410. [Abstract]

Flynn AB, Ogilvie WW
Stereocontrolled synthesis of tetrasubstituted olefins.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4698-745. [Abstract]

Kleparn�k K, Bocek P
DNA diagnostics by capillary electrophoresis.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5279-317. [Abstract]

Li P, Sergueeva ZA, Dobrikov M, Shaw BR
Nucleoside and oligonucleoside boranophosphates: chemistry and properties.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4746-96. [Abstract]

Enders D, Niemeier O, Henseler A
Organocatalysis by N-heterocyclic carbenes.
Chem Rev. 2007 Dec;107(12):5606-55. [Abstract]

de Vivie-Riedle R, Troppmann U
Femtosecond lasers for quantum information technology.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5082-100. [Abstract]

Goldsmith EJ, Akella R, Min X, Zhou T, Humphreys JM
Substrate and docking interactions in serine/threonine protein kinases.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5065-81. [Abstract]

Brackmann F, de Meijere A
Natural occurrence, syntheses, and applications of cyclopropyl-group-containing alpha-amino acids. 2. 3,4- and 4,5-methanoamino acids.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4538-83. [Abstract]

Brackmann F, de Meijere A
Natural occurrence, syntheses, and applications of cyclopropyl-group-containing alpha-amino acids. 1. 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid and other 2,3-methanoamino acids.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4493-537. [Abstract]

Mellah M, Voituriez A, Schulz E
Chiral sulfur ligands for asymmetric catalysis.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):5133-209. [Abstract]

Kaur H, Babu BR, Maiti S
Perspectives on chemistry and therapeutic applications of Locked Nucleic Acid (LNA).
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4672-97. [Abstract]

Mallat T, Orglmeister E, Baiker A
Asymmetric catalysis at chiral metal surfaces.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4863-90. [Abstract]

Siegbahn PE, Tye JW, Hall MB
Computational studies of [NiFe] and [FeFe] hydrogenases.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4414-35. [Abstract]

Vignais PM, Billoud B
Occurrence, classification, and biological function of hydrogenases: an overview.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4206-72. [Abstract]

Kubas GJ
Fundamentals of H2 binding and reactivity on transition metals underlying hydrogenase function and H2 production and storage.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4152-205. [Abstract]

Ockwig NW, Nenoff TM
Membranes for hydrogen separation.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4078-110. [Abstract]

Kodama T, Gokon N
Thermochemical cycles for high-temperature solar hydrogen production.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4048-77. [Abstract]

Esswein AJ, Nocera DG
Hydrogen production by molecular photocatalysis.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):4022-47. [Abstract]

Lubitz W, Tumas W
Hydrogen: an overview.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct;107(10):3900-3. [Abstract]

Michl J
Editorial for the 100th Thematic Issue.
Chem Rev. 2007 Oct 10;107(10):3899. [Abstract]

Loudet A, Burgess K
BODIPY dyes and their derivatives: syntheses and spectroscopic properties.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4891-932. [Abstract]

Najera C, Sansano JM
Catalytic asymmetric synthesis of alpha-amino acids.
Chem Rev. 2007 Nov;107(11):4584-671. [Abstract]

Recent Articles in Accounts of Chemical Research

Klingler FD
Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Prochiral Amino Ketones to Amino Alcohols for Pharmaceutical Use.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Dec 6; .
This Account gives an overview of the homogeneously catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of prochiral amino ketones. The preparation of enantiopure arylalkanolamines, which are potent and economically very important pharmaceuticals, is described. Classical routes of synthesis are compared with the new asymmetric hydrogenation route for a number of compounds from the viewpoint of an industrial pharmaceutical chemist. [Abstract]

Moore JC, Pollard DJ, Kosjek B, Devine PN
Advances in the Enzymatic Reduction of Ketones.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Dec 4;
Historically, biocatalytic ketone reductions involved the use of Baker's yeast. Within the last five years, a significant and growing number of isolated ketoreductases have become available that have rendered yeast-based reductions obsolete. The broad substrate range and exquisite selectivities of these enzymes repeatedly outperform other ketone reduction chemistries, making biocatalysis the general method of choice for ketone reductions. Presented here is a summary of our understanding of the capabilities and limitations of these enzymes. [Abstract]

Shultz CS, Krska SW
Unlocking the Potential of Asymmetric Hydrogenation at Merck.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov 20;
This Account outlines the efforts of Merck scientists toward implementing asymmetric hydrogenation as a core competency within Merck Research Laboratories. Several key factors are discussed including (i) a focus on efficient chemical synthesis, (ii) implementation of high throughput screening (HTS) techniques, (iii) demonstration of robustness on scale, and (iv) diligence to ensure freedom of operation and catalyst supply for manufacturing. Several examples of the development of efficient asymmetric hydrogenation processes are described. [Abstract]

Castner EW, Wishart JF, Shirota H
Intermolecular dynamics, interactions, and solvation in ionic liquids.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
Ionic liquids can simultaneously assume multiple solvent roles, because they are strongly polar and polarizable solvents and binary solutions and frequently contain very hydrophobic components. When the cation and anion functional groups are tuned appropriately, ionic liquids can be used as designer solvents for a broad range of applications. In this Account, we discuss our spectroscopic studies on the intermolecular interactions, dynamics, solvation, transport, and friction in ionic liquids, as compared with information obtained from macroscopic experiments including viscometry and calorimetry. [Abstract]

Ionic liquids.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11): [Abstract]

Klosin J, Landis CR
Ligands for Practical Rhodium-Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydroformylation.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov 13;
A series of bis-phosphite and bis-phosphine ligands for asymmetric hydroformylation reactions has been evaluated. Bis-phosphite ligands lead, in general, to high regioselectivities across a range of substrates while good enantioselectivities are limited to only a few examples. We found that bis-phospholane-type ligands, such as bis-diazaphospholanes and bis-phospholanes, can lead to very high regio- and enantioselectivities for several different substrates. [Abstract]

Smiglak M, Metlen A, Rogers RD
The Second Evolution of Ionic Liquids: From Solvents and Separations to Advanced MaterialsEnergetic Examples from the Ionic Liquid Cookbook.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
In this Account of the small portion of the recent research in ionic liquids (ILs) by the Rogers Group, we fast forward through the first evolution of IL research, where ILs were studied for their unique set of physical properties and the resulting potential for tunable "green solvents", to the second evolution of ILs, where the tunability of the cation and anion independently offers almost unlimited access to targeted combinations of physical and chemical properties. This approach is demonstrated here with the field of energetic ionic liquids (EILs), which utilizes this design flexibility to find safe synthetic routes to ILs with high energy content and targeted physical properties. [Abstract]

Del Po?polo MG, Kohanoff J, Lynden-Bell RM, Pinilla C
Clusters, Liquids, and Crystals of Dialkyimidazolium Salts. A Combined Perspective from ab Initio and Classical Computer Simulations.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov 20;40(11):
We summarize results obtained by a combination of ab initio and classical computer simulations of dialkylimidazolium ionic liquids in different states of aggregation, from crystals to liquids and clusters. Unusual features arising from the competition between electrostatic, dispersion, and hydrogen-bonding interactions are identified at the origin of observed structural patterns. We also discuss the way Br�nsted acids interact with ionic liquids leading to the formation of hydrogen-bonded anions. [Abstract]

Angell CA, Byrne N, Belieres JP
Parallel developments in aprotic and protic ionic liquids: physical chemistry and applications.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
This Account covers research dating from the early 1960s in the field of low-melting molten salts and hydrates,which has recently become popular under the rubric of "ionic liquids". It covers understanding gained in the principal author's laboratories (initially in Australia, but mostly in the U.S.A.) from spectroscopic, dynamic, and thermodynamic studies and includes recent applications of this understanding in the fields of energy conversion and biopreservation. Both protic and aprotic varieties of ionic liquids are included, but recent studies have focused on the protic class because of the special applications made possible by the highly variable proton activities available in these liquids. [Abstract]

Ohno H, Fukumoto K
Amino Acid ionic liquids.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
The preparation of ionic liquids derived from amino acids, and their properties, are outlined. Since amino acids have both a carboxylic acid residue and an amino group in a single molecule, they can be used as either anions or cations. These groups are also useful in their ability to introduce functional group(s). Twenty different natural amino acids were used as anions, to couple with the 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium cation. The salts obtained were all liquid at room temperature. The properties of the resulting ionic liquids (AAILs) depend on the side groups of the amino acids involved. These AAILs, composed of an amino acid with some functional groups such as a hydrogen bonding group, a charged group, or an aromatic ring, had an increased glass transition (or melting) temperature and/or higher viscosity as a result of additional interactions among the ions. Viscosity is reduced and the decomposition temperature of imidazolium-type salts is improved by using the tetrabutylphosphonium cation. The chirality of AAILs was maintained even upon heating to 150 degrees C after acetylation of the free amino group. The amino group was also modified to introduce a strong acid group so as to form hydrophobic and chiral ionic liquids. Unique phase behavior of the resulting hydrophobic ionic liquids and water mixture is found; the mixture is clearly phase separated at room temperature, but the solubility of water in this IL increases upon cooling, to give a homogeneous solution. This phase change is reversible, and separation occurs again by raising the temperature a few degrees. It is extraordinary for an IL/water mixture to display such behavior with a lower critical solution temperature. Some likely applications are proposed for these amino acid derived ionic liquids. [Abstract]

Anderson JL, Dixon JK, Brennecke JF
Solubility of CO2, CH4, C2H6, C2H4, O2, and N2 in 1-Hexyl-3-methylpyridinium Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide: Comparison to Other Ionic Liquids.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
The solubilities of gases in ionic liquids are important in evaluating ionic liquids as solvents for reactions involving permanent gases, as gas storage media, and as solvents for gas separations. Gas solubilities are also important in developing methods to separate solutes from ionic liquid solutions. Here we describe our measurements of the solubilities of CO 2, CH 4, C 2H 6, C 2H 4, O 2, and N 2 in 1-hexyl-3-methylpyridinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and compare these results to our previous investigations. In addition, focus is placed on efforts to tailor ionic liquids to enhance the solubilities of some gases, with particular emphasis on carbon dioxide. [Abstract]

Iwata K, Okajima H, Saha S, Hamaguchi HO
Local Structure Formation in Alkyl-imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquids as Revealed by Linear and Nonlinear Raman Spectroscopy.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
We show several pieces of Raman spectroscopic evidence that are indicative of local structure formation in imidazolium-based ionic liquids. Low-frequency Raman spectra of C n mimX, where C n mim stands for 1-alkyl(C n H 2 n+1 )-3-methylimidazolium cation and X represents the anion, exhibit broad bands assignable to collective modes of local structures. Spatial distributions of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) signals from C n mim[PF 6] are consistent with local structures whose size increases with increasing n. Picosecond Raman spectra of S 1 trans-stilbene as a "picosecond Raman thermometer" show microscopic thermal inhomogeneity ascribable to local structure formation in C 2mimTf 2N and C 4mimTf 2N. We also describe two novel phenomena that we believe are relevant to extraordinary nanoenvironments generated by local structures in a magnetic ionic liquid C 4mim[FeCl 4]. [Abstract]

Saudan LA
Hydrogenation Processes in the Synthesis of Perfumery Ingredients.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Oct 26;
Homogeneous catalytic hydrogenation has played an important role in the development of modern organic synthesis. Indeed, the discovery of highly regio- and stereoselective catalysts for CC and CO bonds reductions has allowed the efficient synthesis of optically active compounds. As the fragrance industry has turned to synthetic ingredients to fulfill the need for novel, cost-effective, and environment-friendly products, the use of catalytic processes are more and more in demand. In this Account, we thus highlight the application of catalytic hydrogenation in the synthesis of fragrance ingredients. [Abstract]

Ikariya T, Blacker AJ
Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones with Bifunctional Transition Metal-Based Molecular Catalysts.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Oct 26;
Recent development of conceptually new chiral bifunctional transition metal based catalysts for asymmetric reductive transformations is described. The chiral bifunctional molecular catalyst promoted reduction is now realized to be a powerful tool to access chiral compounds in organic synthetic procedures in both academia and industry. Based on structural investigation of the actual catalyst and its intermediates and a deep understanding of the reaction mechanism, this asymmetric reduction system can be widely used to produce valuable chiral alcohols and is now is applicable to commercial scale production. [Abstract]

Maginn EJ
Atomistic simulation of the thermodynamic and transport properties of ionic liquids.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
Atomistic simulations have emerged in recent years as an important compliment to experiment for understanding how the properties of ionic liquids are controlled by their underlying chemical structure. The ability to obtain reliable thermodynamic and transport properties from a simulation depends both on the quality of the force field and on the use of a proper simulation method. Properties such as densities and heat capacities may be obtained readily using standard techniques. With more effort and advanced simulation methods, solid-liquid and vapor-liquid phase equilibria may also be determined. Transport properties can also be computed, but the notoriously slow dynamics of many ionic liquid systems means that great care must be taken to ensure that the simulations are accurate. [Abstract]

Wildeman SM, Sonke T, Schoemaker HE, May O
Biocatalytic Reductions: From Lab Curiosity to "First Choice"
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Oct 18;
Enzyme-catalyzed reductions have been studied for decades and have been introduced in more than 10 industrial processes for production of various chiral alcohols, alpha-hydroxy acids and alpha-amino acids. The earlier hurdle of expensive cofactors was taken by the development of highly efficient cofactor regeneration methods. In addition, the accessible number of suitable dehydrogenases and therefore the versatility of this technology is constantly increasing and currently expanding beyond asymmetric production of alcohols and amino acids. Access to a large set of enzymes for highly selective CC reductions and reductive amination of ketones for production of chiral secondary amines and the development of improved d-selective amino acid dehydrogenases will fuel the next wave of industrial bioreduction processes. [Abstract]

Macfarlane DR, Forsyth M, Howlett PC, Pringle JM, Sun J, Annat G, Neil W, Izgorodina EI
Ionic liquids in electrochemical devices and processes: managing interfacial electrochemistry.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
Many ionic liquids offer a range of properties that make them attractive to the field of electrochemistry; indeed it was electrochemical research and applications that ushered in the modern era of interest in ionic liquids. In parallel with this, a variety of electrochemical devices including solar cells, high energy density batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors have become of intense interest as part of various proposed solutions to improve sustainability of energy supply in our societies. Much of our work over the last ten years has been motivated by such applications. Here we summarize the role of ionic liquids in these devices and the insights that the research provides for the broader field of interest of these fascinating liquids. [Abstract]

Marciniec B
Catalytic coupling of sp2- and sp-hybridized carbon-hydrogen bonds with vinylmetalloid compounds.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Oct;40(10):
In the Account given herein, it has been shown that silylative coupling of olefins, well-recognized as a new catalytic route for the activation of double bond C-H bond of olefins and double bond C-Si bond of vinylsilicon compounds with ethylene elimination, can be extended over both other vinylmetalloid derivatives (double bond C-E) (where E = Ge, B, and others) as well as the activation of triple bond C-H, double bond C aryl-H, and -O-H bond of alcohols and silanols. This general transformation is catalyzed by transition-metal complexes (mainly Ru and Rh) containing or initiating TM-H and/or TM-E bonds (inorganometallics). This new general catalytic route for the activation of double bond C-H and triple bond C-H as well as double bond C-E bonds called metallative coupling or trans-metalation (cross-coupling, ring-closing, and polycondensation) constitutes an efficient method (complementary to metathesis) for stereo- and regioselective synthesis of a variety of molecular and macromolecular compounds of vinyl-E (E = Si, B, and Ge) and ethynyl-E (E = Si and Ge) functionality, also potent organometallic reagents for efficient synthesis of highly pi-conjugated organic compounds. The mechanisms of the catalysis of this deethenative metalation have been supported by equimolar reactions of TM-H and/or TM-E with initial substances and reactions with deuterium-labeled reagents. [Abstract]

Wang Y, Jiang W, Yan T, Voth GA
Understanding Ionic Liquids through Atomistic and Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Simulations.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
Understanding the physical properties of ionic liquids (ILs) via computer simulation is important for their potential technological applications. The goal of our IL research is to obtain a unified understanding of the properties of ILs with respect to their underlying molecular structure. From atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, the many-body electronic polarization effect was found to be important for modeling ILs, especially their dynamics. The multiscale coarse-graining methodology has also been employed to increase the simulation speed by a factor of 100 or more, thereby making it possible to study the mesoscopic behavior of ILs by computer simulations. With these simulation techniques, ILs with an amphiphilic cation were found to exhibit a spatial heterogeneity due to the aggregation of their nonpolar alkyl tails. This spatial heterogeneity is a key feature in interpreting many physical phenomena of ILs, such as their heterogeneous self-diffusion and surface layering, as well as their surfactant-like micelles formed in IL/water mixtures. [Abstract]

Lynden-Bell RM, Del P�polo MG, Youngs TG, Kohanoff J, Hanke CG, Harper JB, Pinilla CC
Simulations of ionic liquids, solutions, and surfaces.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
We have been using atomistic simulation for the last 10 years to study properties of imidazolium-based ionic liquids. Studies of dissolved molecules show the importance of electrostatic interactions in both aromatic and hydrogen-bonding solutes. However, the local structure strongly depends upon ion-ion and solute-solvent interactions. We find interesting local alignments of cations at the gas-liquid and solid-liquid interfaces, which give a potential drop through the surface. If the solid interface is charged, this charge is strongly screened over distances of a few nanometres and this screening decays on a fast time scale. We have studied the sensitivity of the liquid structure to force-field parameters and show that results from ab initio simulations can be used in the development of force fields. [Abstract]

Han X, Armstrong DW
Ionic liquids in separations.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Nov;40(11):
Ionic liquids are liquids composed completely of ions. In the past two decades, ionic liquids have been widely used as "green solvents" replacing traditional organic solvents for organic synthesis and catalysis. In addition, ionic liquids are playing an increasingly important role in separation science. In this Account, the application of ionic liquids in all areas of separation science including extractions, gas chromatography, and supported liquid membrane processes are highlighted. [Abstract]

Zhou YG
Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Heteroaromatic Compounds.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep 27;
Asymmetric hydrogenation of heteroaromatic compounds has emerged as a promising new route to saturated or partially saturated chiral heterocyclic compounds. In this Account, we outline recent advances in asymmetric hydrogenation of heteroaromatic compounds, including indole, quinoline, isoquinoline, furan, and pyridine derivatives, using chiral organometallic catalysts and organocatalysts. [Abstract]

Coradin T, Livage J
Aqueous silicates in biological sol-gel applications: new perspectives for old precursors.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep;40(9):
Identification of silica sol-gel chemistry with silicon alkoxide hydrolysis and condensation processes is common in modern materials science. However, aqueous silicates exhibit several features indicating that they may be more suitable precursors for specific fields of research and applications related to biology and medicine. In this Account, we illustrate the potentialities of such aqueous precursors for biomimetic studies, bio-hybrid material design, and bioencapsulation routes. We emphasize that the natural relevance, the biocompatibility, and the low ecological impact of silicate chemistry may balance its lack of diversity, flexibility, and processability. [Abstract]

Dunn B, Zink JI
Sol-gel chemistry and materials.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep;40(9): [Abstract]

Prato M, Kostarelos K, Bianco A
Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes in Drug Design and Discovery.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep 15;
The development of functionalized carbon nanotubes as novel components of pharmaceutical agents (diagnostic or therapeutic) offers great potential for new drug design and discovery capabilities that will incorporate such nanotechnologies at an early stage. Conjugated with different therapeutic and diagnostic agents, carbon nanotubes can show improved efficacy. The current available examples include proof-of-principle studies using carbon nanotube-based conjugates with anticancer, antibiotic, and vaccination and gene therapeutic capacity. [Abstract]

Johnson NB, Lennon IC, Moran PH, Ramsden JA
Industrial-Scale Synthesis and Applications of Asymmetric Hydrogenation Catalysts.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep 6;
This Account provides an overview of our activities in the area of asymmetric hydrogenation over the last 12 years. We discuss the manufacture of metal-containing precatalysts and their use in asymmetric hydrogenation processes. Many of the metal complexes have been made on a multikilogram scale for our own use and also provided to our customers. In addition, we review some of the applications that we have developed for our asymmetric hydrogenation catalysts, many of which have been operated on commercial scales. This all underlines that asymmetric hydrogenation is a mature technology that has been adopted for use in the pharmaceutical and fine-chemical industries. [Abstract]

Tomoda H, Doi T
Discovery and Combinatorial Synthesis of Fungal Metabolites Beauveriolides, Novel Antiatherosclerotic Agents.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep 6;
Cyclodepsipeptic beauveriolides were isolated as inhibitors of lipid droplet synthesis using mouse macrophages from the culture broth of fungal Beauveria sp. FO-6979. The structures, including the absolute stereochemistry of beauveriolide III, were elucidated. Beauveriolides specifically inhibited macrophage acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase activity, resulting in the blockage of cholesteryl ester synthesis and leading to a reduction of lipid droplets in macrophages. Beauveriolides I and III exerted antiatherogenic activity in mouse models without any side effects. Furthermore, a focused library of beauveriolide analogues was prepared by a combinatorial synthesis with solid-phase assembly of linear depsipeptides followed by solution-phase cyclization to obtain more potent inhibitors. [Abstract]

Doctorovich F, Di Salvo F
Performing organic chemistry with inorganic compounds: electrophilic reactivity of selected nitrosyl complexes.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Oct;40(10):
The inorganic nitrosyl (NO(+)) complexes [Fe(CN) 5NO](2-), [Ru(bpy)2(NO)Cl](2+), and [IrCl 5(NO)](-) are useful reagents for the nitrosation of a variety of organic compounds, ranging from amines to the relatively inert alkenes. Regarding [IrCl 5(NO)](-), its high electrophilicity and inertness define it as a unique reagent and provide a powerful synthetic route for the isolation and stabilization of coordinated nitroso compounds that are unstable in free form, such as S-nitrosothiols and primary nitrosamines. Related to the high electrophilicity of [IrCl 5(NO)](-), an unusual behavior is described for its PPh 4(+) salt in the solid state, showing an electronic distribution represented by Ir(IV)-NO(*) instead of Ir (III)-NO(+) (as for the K(+) and Na(+) salts). [Abstract]

Skucas E, Ngai MY, Komanduri V, Krische MJ
Enantiomerically Enriched Allylic Alcohols and Allylic Amines via C-C Bond-Forming Hydrogenation: Asymmetric Carbonyl and Imine Vinylation.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Sep 5;
Hydrogenation of alkynes in the presence of carbonyl compounds and imines using cationic rhodium(I) and iridium(I) precatalysts enables the formation of allylic alcohols and allylic amines, respectively. Through the use of hydrogenation catalysts modified by chiral ligands, allylic alcohols and allylic amines may be generated in highly optically enriched forms. Hydrogenative fragment couplings of this type circumvent the use of preformed organometallic reagents and avoid the generation of stoichiometric byproducts. [Abstract]

Ghosh AK, Chapsal BD, Weber IT, Mitsuya H
Design of HIV Protease Inhibitors Targeting Protein Backbone: An Effective Strategy for Combating Drug Resistance.
Acc Chem Res. 2007 Aug 28;
The discovery of HIV protease inhibitors (PIs) followed by their incorporation into highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) was a major turning point for the management of HIV/AIDS. However, the rapid emergence of drug resistance has become a major concern. Our structure-based design of HIV-1 PIs that can specifically interact with the enzyme backbone atoms has led to the development of compounds with unprecedented potency and drug-resistance profiles. Particularly notable is the development of a stereochemically defined bis(tetrahydrofuranyl)urethane as the non-peptidic P 2 ligand. Incorporation of this ligand has provided a variety of exceedingly potent HIV-1 PIs with superior activity against multi-PI-resistant variants relative to other FDA-approved PIs. Darunavir, a PI recently approved for the treatment of drug-resistant HIV, directly resulted from this strategy. Our detailed protein-darunavir X-ray crystal structures have clearly demonstrated extensive interactions with the protein backbone in the enzyme active site. This present design concept targeting the protein backbone may serve as a powerful strategy to combat drug resistance. [Abstract]

Recent Articles in Chemical Society Reviews

Imrie CT, Henderson PA
Liquid crystal dimers and higher oligomers: between monomers and polymers.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):2096-124.
The underlying theme of this Critical Review is the relationship between molecular structure and liquid crystalline behaviour in a class of materials referred to as liquid crystal oligomers. For the purposes of this review, a liquid crystal oligomer will be defined as consisting of molecules composed of semi-rigid mesogenic units connected via flexible spacers. Much of the review will be devoted to structure-property relationships in the simplest oligomers, namely dimers, in which just two mesogenic units are connected by a single spacer. Along the way we will see how this molecular architecture has been exploited to address issues in a range of quite different areas and has given rise to potential applications for these materials. On the whole, only compounds in which the mesogenic units are linked essentially in a linear fashion will be considered while structures such as liquid crystal dendrimers and tetrapodes fall outside the scope of this review. The review will be of interest not only to scientists working directly in this area but in particular to those interested in understanding the relationships between structure and properties in polymers, and those designing materials for new applications (231 references). [Abstract]

Hird M
Fluorinated liquid crystals - properties and applications.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):2070-95.
This critical review begins with a brief, but essential, introduction to the special nature of liquid crystal materials, their peculiar properties, and their commercial applications, followed by an introductory insight into the remarkable nature of the fluoro substituent, and its fascinating influence on the properties of organic compounds. However, the main focus of the review is to discuss the enormous amount of exciting research on fluorinated liquid crystals that has been reported. The small size of the fluoro substituent enables its incorporation into all types of liquid crystal, including calamitic, discotic, banana, lyotropic, and polymers, without ruining the liquid crystalline nature of the material. However the fluoro substituent is larger than hydrogen, and hence causes a significant steric effect, which combined with the high polarity, confers many fascinating, and often remarkable, modifications to melting point, mesophase morphology and transition temperatures, and the many other very important physical properties, such as dielectric anisotropy, optical anisotropy, and visco-elastic properties. There are many different positions within a liquid crystal structure where a fluoro substituent can be located, including (i) a terminal position, (ii) within a terminal chain, as a semi-fluorinated or as a perfluorinated chain, or as one fluoro substituent at a chiral centre, (iii) as part of a linking group, and (iv) a lateral position in the core section. Such variety enables the interesting and advantageous tailoring of properties, both for the fundamental purposes of establishing structure-property relationships, and for materials targeted towards commercially-successful liquid crystal display applications. [Abstract]

Seed A
Synthesis of self-organizing mesogenic materials containing a sulfur-based five-membered heterocyclic core.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):2046-69.
The majority of low molar mass calamitic mesogenic systems in the literature contain linear cores based on the 1,4-disubstituted phenyl ring. Heterocyclic cores such as thiophene impart unique physical properties as their slightly bent structure leads to features including a reduced packing ability (generally giving rise to lower melting points than their phenyl counterparts), a medium to strong lateral dipole, high anisotropy of the polarizability, low viscosity etc. This critical review describes the most recent synthetic methodology that has been used to prepare thiophene, 1,3-thiazole, and 1,3,4-thiadiazole-based mesogenic materials. (154 references). [Abstract]

Lemieux RP
Molecular recognition in chiral smectic liquid crystals: The effect of core-core interactions and chirality transfer on polar order.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):2033-45.
This critical review focuses on the induction of polar order in smectic liquid crystal phases by dopants with axially chiral cores, and should be of interest to all practitioners of supramolecular chemistry. The variations in polarization power of these dopants with the core structure of the liquid crystal hosts is a manifestation of molecular recognition that reflects the nanosegregation of aromatic cores from paraffinic side-chains in smectic phases, and the collective effect of core-core interactions that enable the propagation of chiral perturbations. (76 references.). [Abstract]

Goodby JW, G�rtz V, Cowling SJ, Mackenzie G, Martin P, Plusquellec D, Benvegnu T, Boullanger P, Lafont D, Queneau Y, Chambert S, Fitremann J
Thermotropic liquid crystalline glycolipids.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1971-2032.
Are the liquid crystalline properties of the materials of living systems important in biological structures, functions, diseases and treatments? There is a growing consciousness that the observed lyotropic, and often thermotropic liquid crystallinity, of many biological materials that possess key biological functionality might be more than curious coincidence. Rather, as the survival of living systems depends on the flexibility and reformability of structures, it seems more likely that it is the combination of softness and structure of the liquid-crystalline state that determines the functionality of biological materials. The richest sources of liquid crystals derived from living systems are found in cell membranes, of these glycolipids are a particularly important class of components. In this critical review, we will examine the relationship between chemical structure and the self-assembling and self-organising properties of glycolipids that ultimately lead to mesophase formation. [Abstract]

Tschierske C
Liquid crystal engineering - new complex mesophase structures and their relations to polymer morphologies, nanoscale patterning and crystal engineering.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1930-70.
This critical review focuses on recent progress in the field of T-shaped ternary amphiphiles. These molecules can self-assemble into a series of new liquid crystalline (LC) phases with polygonal cylinder structures, new lamellar phases and LC phases combining columns and layers. These structures are analyzed on the basis of symmetry, net topology and tiling pattern (Laves and Archimedean tilings) and discussed in relation to morphologies of multiblock copolymers, self organized DNA super-lattices, metal-organic frameworks, crystal-engineering and self-assembled periodic superstructures on surfaces (210 references). [Abstract]

Sergeyev S, Pisula W, Geerts YH
Discotic liquid crystals: a new generation of organic semiconductors.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1902-29.
Discotic (disc-like) molecules typically comprising a rigid aromatic core and flexible peripheral chains have been attracting growing interest because of their fundamental importance as model systems for the study of charge and energy transport and due to the possibilities of their application in organic electronic devices. This critical review covers various aspects of recent research on discotic liquid crystals, in particular, molecular design concepts, supramolecular structure, processing into ordered thin films and fabrication of electronic devices. The chemical structure of the conjugated core of discotic molecules governs, to a large extent, their intramolecular electronic properties. Variation of the peripheral flexible chains and of the aromatic core is decisive for the tuning of self-assembly in solution and in bulk. Supramolecular organization of discotic molecules can be effectively controlled by the choice of the processing methods. In particular, approaches to obtain suitable macroscopic orientations of columnar superstructures on surfaces, that is, planar uniaxial or homeotropic alignment, are discussed together with appropriate processing techniques. Finally, an overview of charge transport in discotic materials and their application in optoelectronic devices is given (234 references). [Abstract]

Marcos M, Mart�n-Rap�n R, Omenat A, Serrano JL
Highly congested liquid crystal structures: dendrimers, dendrons, dendronized and hyperbranched polymers.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1889-901.
In this tutorial review we describe some studies concerning liquid crystal dendritic polymers. We have chosen to present several representative examples that illustrate the diverse kinds of LC dendritic structures, namely: dendrimers, dendrons, dendronized polymers and hyperbranched polymers. We review their synthesis, mesogenic properties and the way that they are arranged to form supramolecular liquid crystal assemblies. [Abstract]

Wilson MR
Molecular simulation of liquid crystals: progress towards a better understanding of bulk structure and the prediction of material properties.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1881-8.
This tutorial review covers recent progress in the field of computer simulation of liquid crystals. The development of the main "molecular-based" models for liquid crystals is described. These include lattice models, coarse-grained single site models based on hard and soft interaction potentials, atomistic models and multi-site coarse-grained models. A brief historical review is followed by an assessment of some of the new areas in this field, with an emphasis on understanding of molecular structure in liquid crystal phases and the prediction of bulk material properties. The article also looks to link the field of liquid crystal simulation with important developments in areas such as polymer simulation, lyotropic liquid crystals and model membranes. [Abstract]

Matharu AS, Jeeva S, Ramanujam PS
Liquid crystals for holographic optical data storage.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1868-80.
A tutorial review is presented to inform and inspire the reader to develop and integrate strong scientific links between liquid crystals and holographic data storage, from a materials scientist's viewpoint. The principle of holographic data storage as a means of providing a solution to the information storage demands of the 21st century is detailed. Holography is a small subset of the much larger field of optical data storage and similarly, the diversity of materials used for optical data storage is enormous. The theory of polarisation holography which produces holograms of constant intensity, is discussed.Polymeric liquid crystals play an important role in the development of materials for holographic storage and photoresponsive materials based on azobenzene are targeted for discussion due to their ease of photo-reversion between trans- and cis-states. Although the final polymer may not be liquid crystalline, irradiation can induce ordered domains. The mesogens act in a co-operative manner, enhancing refractive indices and birefringences. Surface relief gratings are discussed as a consequence of holographic storage.Cholesteric polymers comprising azobenzene are briefly highlighted. Irradiation causing cis-trans-isomerisation can be used to control helix pitch. A brief mention of liquid crystals is also made since these materials may be of future interest since they are optically transparent and amenable to photo-induced anisotropy. [Abstract]

Kato T, Hirai Y, Nakaso S, Moriyama M
Liquid-crystalline physical gels.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1857-67.
Liquid-crystalline (LC) physical gels are a new class of dynamically functional materials consisting of liquid crystals and fibrous aggregates of molecules that are called "gelators". Liquid-crystalline physical gels, which are macroscopically soft solids, exhibit induced or enhanced electro-optical, photochemical, electronic properties due to the combination of two components that form phase-separated structures. In this tutorial review, we describe the materials design and structure-property relationships of the LC physical gels. The introduction of self-assembled fibers into nematic liquid crystals leads to faster responses in twisted nematic (TN) mode and high contrast switching in light scattering mode. Furthermore, the LC physical gels can be exploited as a new type of materials for electro-optical memory. This function is achieved by the control of reversible aggregation processes of gelators under electric fields in nematic liquid crystals. Electronic properties such as hole mobilities are improved by the introduction of fibrous aggregates into triphenylene-based columnar liquid crystals. The incorporation of photochromic azobenzenes or electroactive tetrathiafulvalenes into the chemical structures of gelators leads to the preparation of ordered functional materials. [Abstract]

Goodby JW
Editorial - liquid crystals.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Dec;36(12):1855-6. [Abstract]

Angell YL, Burgess K
Peptidomimetics via copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloadditions.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1674-89.
This critical review concerns the impact of copper-mediated alkyne-azide cycloadditions on peptidomimetic studies. It discusses how this reaction has been used to insert triazoles into peptide chains, to link peptides to other functionalities (e.g. carbohydrates, polymers, and labels), and as a basis for evolution of less peptidic compounds as pharmaceutical leads. It will be of interest to those studying this click reaction, peptidomimetic secondary structure and function, and to medicinal chemists. [Abstract]

Bowker M
Catalysis resolved using scanning tunnelling microscopy.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1656-73.
The technique of scanning tunnelling microscopy has revolutionised our understanding of surface chemistry, due to its ability to image at the atomic and molecular scale, the very realm at which chemistry operates. This critical review focuses on its contribution to the resolution of various problems in heterogeneous catalysis, including surface structure, surface intermediates, active sites and spillover. In the article a number of images of surfaces are shown, many at atomic resolution, and the insights which these give into surface reactivity are invaluable. The article should be of interest to catalytic chemists, surface and materials scientists and those involved with nanotechnology/nanoscience. (129 references.)The graphical abstract shows the reaction between gas phase methanol and oxygen islands on Cu(110), courtesy of Philip Davies of Cardiff University. The added-row island is shown as silver-coloured spheres (copper) and red (oxygen) on the copper surface. Methanol preferentially reacts with the terminal oxygen atoms in the island forming adsorbed methoxy and OH groups. Only the terminal oxygen atoms in the island are active sites for the reaction. [Abstract]

Grochala W
Atypical compounds of gases, which have been called 'noble'.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1632-55.
In this critical review I describe fascinating experimental and theoretical advances in 'noble gas' chemistry during the last twenty years, and have taken a somewhat unexpected course since 2000. I also highlight perspectives for further development in this field, including the prospective synthesis of compounds containing as yet unknown Xe-element and element-Xe-element bridging bonds, peroxide species containing Xe, adducts of XeF(2) with various metal fluorides, Xe-element alloys, and novel pressure-stabilized covalently bound and host-guest compounds of Xe. A substantial part of the essay is devoted to the-as yet experimentally unexplored-behaviour of the compounds of Xe under high pressure. The blend of science, history, and theoretical predictions, will be valued by inorganic and organic chemists, materials scientists, and the community of theoretical and experimental high-pressure physicists and chemists (151 references). [Abstract]

Ritch JS, Chivers T, Afzaal M, O'Brien P
The single molecular precursor approach to metal telluride thin films: imino-bis(diisopropylphosphine tellurides) as examples.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1622-31.
Interest in metal telluride thin films as components in electronic devices has grown recently. This tutorial review describes the use of single-source precursors for the preparation of metal telluride materials by aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) and acquaints the reader with the basic techniques of materials characterization. The challenges in the design and synthesis of suitable precursors are discussed, focusing on metal complexes of the recently-developed imino-bis(diisopropylphosphine telluride) ligand. The generation of thin films and nanoplates of CdTe, Sb(2)Te(3) and In(2)Te(3) from these precursors are used as illustrative examples. [Abstract]

Aucouturier M, Darque-Ceretti E
The surface of cultural heritage artefacts: physicochemical investigations for their knowledge and their conservation.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1605-21.
This tutorial review intends to show, through demonstrative examples chosen from the recent literature, how surface characterisation conducted by modern investigation methods leads to very rich information on a cultural heritage artefact's history, fabrication techniques and conservation state. Application of surface science to conservation science is of great help for the definition of a conservation and restoration policy for museum and archaeological objects. A brief description of the investigation methods is given, together with relevant references for more detailed information. [Abstract]

Rosillo M, Dom�nguez G, P�rez-Castells J
Chromium arene complexes in organic synthesis.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1589-604.
The complexation of an arene to a chromium tricarbonyl unit changes its chemical behavior, giving rise to unprecedented transformations. The electron-withdrawing effect of the unit allows efficient nucleophilic attack (S(N)Ar and dearomatization reactions), stabilizes negative charges in benzylic positions and activates C(Ar)-halogen bonds for cross-coupling reactions. In addition, the Cr(CO)(3) moiety exerts great facial control so it can be used as an auxiliary that can easily be removed. The 1,2- and 1,3-unsymmetrically disubstituted complexes are planar chiral and there are various ways to prepare them in enantiomerically pure form. Planar chiral chromium complexes are becoming useful intermediates and ligands for asymmetric catalysis. This mature field of organometallic chemistry has given rise to several synthetic applications of chromium arene complexes in the synthesis of natural products. This chemistry is overviewed in this tutorial review, giving special attention to the most recent and outstanding contributions in the area. [Abstract]

Basavaiah D, Venkateswara Rao K, Jannapu Reddy R
The Baylis-Hillman reaction: a novel source of attraction, opportunities, and challenges in synthetic chemistry.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1581-8.
The Baylis-Hillman reaction is a successful, useful, and atom-economical carbon-carbon bond forming reaction, which has grown from an obscure level to the level of high synthetic popularity due to its operational simplicity and also due to the enormous applications of the Baylis-Hillman adducts in organic synthesis. In this tutorial review, we briefly describe the way this reaction has grown to its present heights and the opportunities, attractions, and challenges the reaction offers with respect to its asymmetric and intramolecular versions, and mechanistic aspects. [Abstract]

Williams CK
Synthesis of functionalized biodegradable polyesters.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1573-80.
This tutorial review summarizes recent developments in the syntheses of functionalized aliphatic polyesters. These polymers are attracting attention as sustainable alternatives to petrochemicals and for applications in medicine. Two main syntheses are described: step polymerization using mild chemo/enzymatic catalysis and ring opening polymerization, which is usually initiated by metal complexes. The methods are compared and their utility illustrated with reference to interesting new materials. [Abstract]

Satoh T
Recent advances in the chemistry of magnesium carbenoids.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1561-72.
This tutorial review deals with recent advances in the chemistry and synthetic use of magnesium carbenoids. The reactivity of traditional carbenoids (alpha-haloalkyllithium species) was successfully reduced by using magnesium as the metal instead of lithium. Properties of these relatively stable carbenoids, magnesium carbenoids, were widely investigated and it was found that the magnesium carbenoids have very interesting reactivity toward several nucleophiles. The magnesium carbenoids, magnesium cyclopropylidenes, magnesium alkylidene carbenoids, and magnesium beta-oxido carbenoids are generated from alpha-chloroalkyl (or alpha-chloroalkenyl) aryl sulfoxides with a Grignard reagent at low temperature by sulfoxide-magnesium exchange reaction. The stability of the generated magnesium carbenoids and several new reactions based on the electrophilicity of the magnesium carbenoids, including 1,3-CH insertion, are reviewed. Magnesium carbenoids open up the new world of the chemistry of carbenoids. [Abstract]

Liu S, Han YF, Jin GX
Formation of direct metal-metal bonds from 16-electron "pseudo-aromatic" half-sandwich complexes Cp''M[E2C2(B10H10)].
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Oct;36(10):1543-60.
Continuous study on preparation of multimetallic clusters is stimulated by their rich coordination chemistry and promising applications in a variety of interesting fields. Although numerous efforts have been devoted to this field, the rational design of homo- and hetero-multimetallic compounds with direct metal-metal bonding supported by 1,2-dicarba-closo-dodecarborane-1,2-dichalcogenolates will still be an important step forward. This tutorial review focuses on the synthetic approach via redox reactions between the pseudo-aromatic half-sandwich oraganometallic carborane precursors and low-valent transition metal reagents. The tailoring of reaction conditions and the structural information from the resulting products are discussed extensively. [Abstract]

Spivey JJ, Egbebi A
Heterogeneous catalytic synthesis of ethanol from biomass-derived syngas.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Sep;36(9):1514-28.
The selective catalytic conversion of biomass-derived syngas into ethanol is thermodynamically feasible at temperatures below roughly 350 degrees C at 30 bar. However, if methane is allowed as a reaction product, the conversion to ethanol (or other oxygenates) is extremely limited. Experimental results show that high selectivities to ethanol are only achieved at very low conversions, typically less than 10%. The most promising catalysts for the synthesis of ethanol are based on Rh, though some other formulations (such as modified methanol synthesis catalysts) show promise. [Abstract]

Donnio B, Buathong S, Bury I, Guillon D
Liquid crystalline dendrimers.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Sep;36(9):1495-513.
In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the field of liquid crystalline dendrimers. Such a fast development is, among other things, driven by the multiple possibilities offered by combining the mesomorphic properties of single mesogenic subunits with the supermolecular and versatile architectures of dendrimers to yield a new class of highly functional materials. The induction and the control of the mesomorphic properties (phase type and stability) in dendrimers can be achieved by a dedicated molecular design which depends on the chemical nature and structure of both the functional groups and the dendritic matrix. In particular, the intrinsic connectivity of the dendrimer such as the multivalency of the focal core and the multiplicity of the branches, both controlling the geometrical rate of growth, or the dendritic generation, plays a crucial role and influences at various stages the subtle relationships between the supermolecular structure and the mesophase structure and stability. In this critical review article, an account of the various types of dendritic systems that form liquid-crystalline mesophases along with a description of the self-organization of representative case-study supermolecules into liquid crystalline mesophases will be discussed. Some basics of thermotropic liquid crystals and dendrimers will be given in the introduction. Then, in the following sections, selected examples including side-chain, main-chain, fullerodendrimers, shape-persistent dendrimers, supramolecular dendromesogens and metallodendrimers, as representative families of LC dendrimers, will be described. In the conclusion some further developments will be highlighted. This review will not cover liquid crystalline hyperbranched and dendronized polymers that might be considered as being somehow less structurally "perfect". [Abstract]

Midgley PA, Ward EP, Hungr�a AB, Thomas JM
Nanotomography in the chemical, biological and materials sciences.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Sep;36(9):1477-94.
Nanotomography is a technique of growing importance in the investigation of the shape, size, distribution and elemental composition of a wide variety of materials that are of central interest to investigators in the physical and biological sciences. Nanospatial factors often hold the key to a deeper understanding of the properties of matter at the nanoscale level. With recent advances in tomography, it is possible to achieve experimental resolution in the nanometre range, and to determine with elemental specificity the three-dimensional distribution of materials. This critical review deals principally with electron tomography, but it also outlines the power and future potential of transmission X-ray tomography, and alludes to other related techniques. [Abstract]

Cooke MW, Hanan GS
Luminescent polynuclear assemblies.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Sep;36(9):1466-76.
This tutorial review consists of five main sections. The first gives a general introduction and then a discussion about the need for luminescent assemblies. The next four sections present the various assemblies based on the metal ions used to assemble the final structures. Each of these sections gives a brief overview of the design principles, synthesis, and ground and excited-state properties of the ligands and complexes in question. The review concludes with some suggestions for future avenues of research. [Abstract]

Althues H, Henle J, Kaskel S
Functional inorganic nanofillers for transparent polymers.
Chem Soc Rev. 2007 Sep;36(9):1454-65.
The integration of inorganic nanoparticles into polymers has been used for the functionalization of polymer materials with great success. Whereas in traditional polymer composites, micron sized particles or agglomerates typically cause significant light scattering hampering optical applications, in nanocomposites the particle dimensions are small enough for the production of highly transparent composites. A challenge for the generation of such materials is to develop an integrated synthesis strategy adapting particle generation, surface modification and integration inside the polymer. Surface grafting using polymerizable surfactants or capping agents allows for