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Enzymatic cleavage of C─F bonds in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is largely unknown but avidly sought to promote systems biology for PFAS bioremediation. Here, we report the reductive defluorination of α, β-unsaturated per- and polyfluorocarboxylic acids by Acetobacterium spp. The microbial defluorination products were structurally confirmed and showed regiospecificity and stereospecificity, consistent with their formation by enzymatic reactions. A comparison of defluorination activities among several Acetobacterium species indicated that a functional fluoride exporter was required for the detoxification of the released fluoride. Results from both in vivo inhibition tests and in silico enzyme modeling suggested the involvement of enzymes of the flavin-based electron-bifurcating caffeate reduction pathway [caffeoyl-CoA reductase (CarABCDE)] in the reductive defluorination. This is a report on specific microorganisms carrying out enzymatic reductive defluorination of PFAS, which could be linked to electron-bifurcating reductases that are environmentally widespread.

Halogenated phenazine meroterpenoids are a structurally unusual family of marine actinobacterial natural products that exhibit antibiotic, antibiofilm, and cytotoxic bioactivities. Despite a lack of established phenazine halogenation biochemistry, genomic analysis of Streptomyces sp. CNZ-289, a prolific lavanducyanin and C2-halogenated derivative producer, suggested the involvement of vanadium-dependent haloperoxidases. We subsequently discovered lavanducyanin halogenase (LvcH), characterized it in vitro as a regioselective vanadium-dependent chloroperoxidase, and applied it in late-stage chemoenzymatic synthesis.

A practical and efficient synthetic route to construct a variety of 3-halochromones has been realized using Selectfluor reagent as a fluorine source, or Selectfluor-copper(I) halide combination as halogen source under mild conditions. This reaction proceeds via a sequence of electrophilic cation addition, and cyclization leading to a broad range of 3-halochromones in good to excellent yields in a short period of time. Additionally, the utilization of commercially available and cost-effective Selectfluor and copper(I) halide renders this system highly practical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinazolines are biologically potent heterocyclic compounds; however, their synthesis poses high challenges. In this present study, we have developed an inexpensive cobalt metal‐catalyzed acceptorless dehydrogenative pathway for the sequential synthesis of alkenylated quinazolines from benzhydrol via dehydrogenation, cyclization, and subsequent dehydrogenative sp3 C−H functionalization. This transformation holds potential owing to its commercially available key starting materials, good functional tolerance, moderate reaction conditions, environmental friendliness, and applicability for gram‐scale synthesis. Furthermore, the synthetic utility of the synthesized derivatives has been explored through various reactions, including reduction, halogenation, methoxylation, Michael addition, and spiro cyclization. Additionally, the photophysical properties indicate that the nitrogen atom of the synthesized derivatives readily undergoes a reversible protonation, leading to significant changes in colour. This characteristic presents an opportunity for the creation of pH sensors with colourimetric capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halogenation is one of the most important transformations in organic synthesis. Halogenated compounds are employed in many reactions to prepare useful molecules. Many methods have been developed to introduce halogens into different compounds. Visible light‐mediated reactions are the efficient, low‐toxic, and mild‐condition methods applied for various organic chemistry transformations. Remarkably, there has been an increasing development in the application of visible light‐induced halogenation in recent years. Herein, we present a comprehensive summary of halogenation reactions including chlorination, bromination, and iodination under visible light irradiation since 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoles are common motifs in functional agricultural and pharmaceutical molecules. Heteroatom alkylation is the most frequently used chemical reaction in the pharmaceutical field. Developing protocols for the nucleophilic substitution of (indol-2-yl)methyl electrophiles is important for functionalizing indoles. There are few studies on the nucleophilic substitution at the 2′-position of the electrophiles without an electron-withdrawing group at the 1-position or substituents at the 2′- and 3-positions, where the existing approaches require high temperatures and long reaction times. In this study, we demonstrated rapid (7–12 s) and mild (25 °C) microflow nucleophilic substitution at the 2′-position of indole derivatives without an electron-withdrawing group at the 1-position and substituents at the 2′- or 3-positions. Comparable batch conditions resulted in a lower yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure of molecular aggregates is crucial for charge transport and photovoltaic performance in organic solar cells (OSCs). Herein, the intermolecular interactions and aggregated structures of nonfused‐ring electron acceptors (NFREAs) are precisely regulated through a halogen transposition strategy, resulting in a noteworthy transformation from a 2D‐layered structure to a 3D‐interconnected packing network. Based on the 3D electron transport pathway, the binary and ternary devices deliver outstanding power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 17.46 % and 18.24 %, respectively, marking the highest value for NFREA‐based OSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient and rapid protocol for the oxidative halogenation of tryptamines with 10 % aqueous NaClO has been developed. This reaction is featured by its operational simplicity, metal‐free conditions, no purification, and high yield. Notably, the resulting key intermediates are suitable for further functionalization with various nucleophiles, including amines, N‐aromatic heterocycles, indoles and phenols. The overall transformation exhibits broad functional‐group tolerance and is applicable to the late‐stage functionalization of complex biorelevant molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the ambiphilic reactivity of SF5‐alkynes, and we proved they can act as both nucleophiles and electrophiles. We selected halogenation reactions as benchmark reactions and developed highly selective stereodivergent hydrohalogenation (I, Br, Cl, F) reactions of SF5‐alkynes. The stereochemistry is finely controlled thanks to the nature of the acids used (strong or soft) in the presence of halide source, while the high regioselectivity is governed by the strong polarization of SF5‐alkynes. Mechanistic studies supported by DFT calculations shed light on two different reaction mechanisms responsible of the excellent stereocontrol. This stereoselectivity was quantitatively rationalized with the ASM and EDA methods. A few dihalogenation reactions are reported and DFT calculations rationalize this cis‐stereoselectivity. Relative configuration of all the SF5‐haloalkenes was unambiguously determined by X‐ray diffraction. Noteworthy, several post‐functionalization reactions such as cross‐couplings, cyanation and reductions are described to strengthen the synthetic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halogenation of Y‐series small‐molecule acceptors (Y‐SMAs) is identified as an effective strategy to optimize photoelectric properties for achieving improved power‐conversion‐efficiencies (PCEs) in binary organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the effect of different halogenation in the 2D‐structured large π‐fused core of guest Y‐SMAs on ternary OSCs has not yet been systematically studied. Herein, four 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs (X‐QTP‐4F, including halogen‐free H‐QTP‐4F, chlorinated Cl‐QTP‐4F, brominated Br‐QTP‐4F, and iodinated I‐QTP‐4F) by attaching different halogens into 2D‐conjugation extended dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core are developed. Among these X‐QTP‐4F, Cl‐QTP‐4F has a higher absorption coefficient, optimized molecular crystallinity and packing, suitable cascade energy levels, and complementary absorption with PM6:L8‐BO host. Moreover, among ternary PM6:L8‐BO:X‐QTP‐4F blends, PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F obtains a more uniform and size‐suitable fibrillary network morphology, improved molecular crystallinity and packing, as well as optimized vertical phase distribution, thus boosting charge generation, transport, extraction, and suppressing energy loss of OSCs. Consequently, the PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F‐based OSCs achieve a 19.0% efficiency, which is among the state‐of‐the‐art OSCs based on 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs and superior to these devices based on PM6:L8‐BO host (17.70%) and with guests of H‐QTP‐4F (18.23%), Br‐QTP‐4F (18.39%), and I‐QTP‐4F (17.62%). The work indicates that halogenation in 2D‐structured dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core of Y‐SMAs guests is a promising strategy to gain efficient ternary OSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their high anisotropic behavior, liquid crystals possess strong nonlinear optical properties. The RM734 liquid crystal is famous for having high anisotropic behaviors compared to traditional liquid crystals. The present work focused on the evaluation of electronic, charge-transport, nonlinear optical, electro-optical, and thermochemical properties of the RM734 liquid crystal. Furthermore, the effect of halogenation on the above properties of RM734 was investigated and is discussed in depth as halogen substitution on the liquid crystal molecule can alter the quantum mechanical properties of any liquid crystal molecule. Density functional theory combined with B3LYP and dispersion correction were used to calculate the properties of RM734. The 6-311G** basis set was used for the estimation of these properties, whereas def2-TZVPD was used to evaluate the nonlinear optical parameters. Due to the halogenation of RM734, its electronic properties vary significantly. By halogenation, a better electron-transport molecule can be converted into a hole-transport molecule. The electro-optical properties were calculated with the application of an external electric field for all molecules. With the help of the order parameter, the nematic phase was observed for all reported molecules. The variation in the birefringence with respect to the external electric field was investigated and discussed in detail. Therefore, the present study reveals the significant impact of halogenation in terms of the nonlinear optical and thermochemical properties of RM734. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Hard carbon as a negative electrode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) has great commercial potential and has been widely studied. The sodium-ion intercalation in graphite domains and the filling of closed pores in the low voltage platform region still remain a subject of controversy. We have successfully constructed hard carbon materials with a pseudo-graphitic structure by using polymerizable p -phenylenediamine and dichloromethane as carbon sources. This was achieved by a halogenated amination reaction and oxidative polymerization. It was found that the capacity of hard carbon materials mainly originates from intercalation into graphite domains. The study found that the prepared hard carbon could store 339.33 mAh g−1 of sodium in a reversible way at a current density of 25 mA g−1, and it had an initial coulomb efficiency of 80.23%. It even maintained a reversible sodium storage capacity of 125.53 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 12.8 A g−1. Based on the analysis of hard carbon structure and electrochemical performance, it was shown that the materials conform with an "adsorption-intercalation" mechanism for sodium storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we disclose a new strategy that rapidly and reliably incorporates bromine atoms at distal, secondary C(sp3)−H sites in aliphatic amines with an excellent and predictable site‐selectivity pattern. The resulting halogenated building blocks serve as versatile linchpins to enable a series of carbon‐carbon and carbon‐heteroatom bond‐formations at remote C(sp3) sites, thus offering a new modular and unified platform that expediates the access to advanced sp3 architectures possessing valuable nitrogen‐containing saturated heterocycles of interest in medicinal chemistry settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vicinal halohydrins are key building blocks to produce bioactive molecules and drugs, especially if they can be obtained in enantiomerically pure form. In this study, we present a bi‐enzymatic sequence that allows to obtain vic‐halohydrins through a photochemoenzymatic olefin hydroxy halogenation followed by a lipase catalysed kinetic resolution. The absolute configuration of the resulting products was determined using Mosher's method [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The halogenation of alkenes is a crucial pathway in forming C-X bonds, with a significant impact on organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals. However, traditional methodologies present potential hazards to both the environment and human health, making the quest for green and efficient halogenation methods paramount. In this study, we introduce a novel iron catalyst based on a polyoxometalate, (NH4)3[FeMo6O18(OH)6], simplified as Fe(III)Mo6. Employing this catalyst, a plethora of styrene derivatives and alcohols were efficiently and successfully converted to the corresponding halogenated products. Also, our catalyst showed excellent performance toward the reaction with various substrates. Moreover, it demonstrates high stability and activity in the cycle test. In addition, we also described the reaction mechanism based on the control experiment. The catalyst exhibits non-toxic, green, and environmentally friendly characteristics that provide future industrialization potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Chemodivergent synthesis of benzofurans and 2,3‐dihydrobenzofurans has been realized. Under a reaction system consisting of DBDMH and K2CO3 as promotors, controlled conditions enabled the formation of two sets of valuable heterocycles from the tandem transformation of enaminones and salicylaldehydes. The key to success was the identification of the reaction parameters, in which the imine intermediate which was formed by transient halogenation coupling and substitution processes underwent either aldol condensation/annulation or imine hydrolysis/aldol condensation. The additives NH4Cl or Fe2(SO4)3 controlled the unique selectivity of this reaction. A broad substrate scope of enaminones and salicylaldehydes has been employed in this reaction, demonstrating excellent functional group tolerance and versatility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of triaryltelluronium salts to interact with N‐halosuccinimides (NXS) through chalcogen bonding (ChB) in the solid state and in solution is demonstrated herein. Cocrystals of the triaryltelluronium bearing two CF3 electron‐withdrawing groups per aryl ring with N‐chloro‐, N‐bromo‐ and N‐iodosuccinimide (respectively NCS, NBS and NIS) were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction, evidencing a ChB between tellurium and the carbonyl group of NXS. This ChB was confirmed in solution by NMR spectroscopy, especially by 125Te NMR titration experiment, which allowed the determination of the association constant (Ka) between the telluronium and NBS. The so‐obtained Ka value of 17.3±0.6 M−1 indicated a moderate interaction in solution because of the competitive role of the solvent. The strength of the Te⋅⋅⋅O ChB was however sufficient enough to promote the catalytic halofunctionalization of aromatics and of alkenes such as the intra‐ and intermolecular haloalkoxylation and haloesterification of alkenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amino acids (AAs) are modular building blocks which nature uses to synthesize both macromolecules, such as proteins, and small molecule natural products, such as alkaloids and non‐ribosomal peptides. While the 20 main proteinogenic AAs display relatively limited side chain diversity, a wide range of non‐canonical amino acids (ncAAs) exist that are not used by the ribosome for protein synthesis, but contain a broad array of structural features and functional groups. In this communication, we report the discovery of the biosynthetic pathway for a new ncAA, pazamine, which contains a cyclopropane ring formed in two steps. In the first step, a chlorine is added onto the C4 position of lysine by a radical halogenase, PazA. The cyclopropane ring is then formed in the next step by a pyridoxal‐5′‐phosphate‐dependent enzyme, PazB, via an SN2‐like attack at C4 to eliminate chloride. Genetic studies of this pathway in the native host, Pseudomonas azotoformans, show that pazamine potentially inhibits ethylene biosynthesis in growing plants based on alterations in the root phenotype of Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. We further show that PazB can be utilized to make an alternative cyclobutane‐containing AA. These discoveries may lead to advances in biocatalytic production of specialty chemicals and agricultural biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A catalytic strategy towards the tribromide‐catalyzed dearomative spirocyclization reaction is described employing tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) and oxone as an oxidising agent. This methodology leads to the exclusive formation of spirofurano dienones without rearomatization or halogenation. Our group has been on trails of tribromide‐catalyzed dearomative transformation during the last decade, and now this exhibits the first report which delivers high functional group tolerance and broad substrate scope with excellent yield (up to 99 %) and good diastereoselectivity (dr up to 14 : 1). The oxidation of naphthols as well as phenols is achieved under this mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halogen(I) complexes are widely used as halogenation reagents and traditionally feature homoleptic stabilising Lewis bases, though the recent revitalisation of iodine(I) carboxylate chemistry has provided isolable examples of heteroleptic iodine(I) complexes. This work reports iodine(I) pnictogenate complexes stabilised by a Lewis base (L), Ph2P(O)O─I─L, synthesised via cation exchange from the silver(I) precursor, (Ph2P(O)OAg)n. The complexes were characterised in both solution (1H, 1H-15N HMBC, 31P) and the solid state, and supplemented computationally by DFT studies. Interestingly, these iodine(I) pnictogenates demonstrate a range of stabilities, and have been found to excel as iodination reagents in comparison to carbonyl hypoiodites, with comparable reactivity to the eponymous Barluenga's reagent in the iodination of antipyrine. Iodine(I) carboxylates have been explored as iodination reagents, but the role of the carbonyl group in promoting such reactivity remains poorly understood. Here, the authors prepare iodine(I) pnictogenates and find that they excel as iodination reagents in comparison to iodine(I) carboxylates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unspecific Peroxygenases (UPOs) are increasingly significant enzymes for selective oxygenations as they are stable, highly active and catalyze their reactions at the expense of only hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. Their structural similarity to chloroperoxidase (CPO) means that UPOs can also catalyze halogenation reactions based upon the generation of hypohalous acids from halide and H2O2. Here we show that the halogenation and oxygenation modes of a UPO can be stimulated at different pH values. Using simple aromatic compounds such as thymol, we show that, at a pH of 3.0 and 6.0, either brominated or oxygenated products respectively are produced. Preparative 100 mg scale transformations of substrates were performed with 60–72 % isolated yields of brominated products obtained. A one‐pot bromination‐oxygenation cascade reaction on 4‐ethylanisole, in which the pH was adjusted from 3.0 to 6.0 at the halfway stage, yielded sequentially brominated and oxygenated products 1‐(3‐bromo‐4‐methoxyphenyl)ethyl alcohol and 3‐bromo‐4‐methoxy acetophenone with 82 % combined conversion. These results identify UPOs as an unusual example of a biocatalyst that is tunable for entirely different chemical reactions, dependent upon the reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphosphamides are normally good flame retardants. Herein a mesoporous polyphosphamide (p‐PPA) with an accessible average pore diameter of <10 nm and a surface area of 1.773 m2/g has been synthesized via condensation of 1,3‐diamino benzene (DAB) and phenyl phosphinic dichloride (PPDC). 31P, 13C CP‐MAS solid‐state NMR, Raman, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) characterizations confirm the presence of ‐{PV(O)‐NH}‐ in the repeating unit of the p‐PPA that is further used as a catalytic mediator to perform the Appel reaction i. e., conversion of alcohols to halides with a broad substrate scope and high TON (561). The heterogeneity of p‐PPA allows easy recovery of organic halides and recycling of the catalyst many times. Mesoporous p‐PPA has further given a scope to perform shape‐selective conversion of primary alcohols with linear alkyl chain (1‐dodecanol) while a low conversion for the bulky secondary (cyclo‐hexanol) and tertiary alcohol (tert‐butanol) is observed. Perhaps, the phosphamide units present inside the porous channel are non‐preferable sites for bulkier alcohols, as evident from the competitive experiments. A comparatively less catalytic conversion obtained with an analogous non‐porous n‐PPA, made of tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine (TREN) linker, highlights the role of porosity in p‐PPA to enhance the accessibility of numerous ‐{PV(O)‐NH}‐ reactive units to increase the TON. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficiently aerobic dehydrazination of arylhydrazines promoted by potassium tert‐butoxide (tBuOK) is detailed in this study. This method smoothly produces aromatics analogues from arylhydrazines using catalytic amount of tBuOK under practical conditions, exhibiting excellent functional group tolerance and a broad substrate scope. The application potential of this approach is further demonstrated through the preparation of deuterated, iodinated and brominated aromatics. Moreover, it shows that this aerobic base‐mediated dehydrazination could be utilized to prepare unsymmetrical aryl sulfides, selenides and tellurides with high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2‐Arylsulfonyl‐2‐azabicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐enes, synthesized via the cycloaddition of chloral‐ or dichloro(phenyl)acetaldehyde N‐arylsulfonylimines to cyclopentadiene, undergo Wagner‐Meerwein rearrangement under the action of bromine or chlorine to afford 3‐polychloro‐6,7‐dyhalogenated 2‐arylsulfonylazabicyclo[2.2.1]heptanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of household bleach cleaning products results in emissions of highly oxidative gaseous species, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and chlorine (Cl2). These species readily react with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as limonene, one of the most abundant compounds found in indoor enviroments. In this study, reactions of HOCl/Cl2 with limonene in the gas phase and on indoor relevant surfaces were investigated. Using an environmental Teflon chamber, we show that silica (SiO2), a proxy for window glass, and rutile (TiO2), a component of paint and self-cleaning surfaces, act as a reservoir for adsorption of gas-phase products formed between HOCl/Cl2 and limonene. Furthermore, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) shows that the gas-phase reaction products of HOCl/Cl2 and limonene readily adsorb on both SiO2 and TiO2. Surface-mediated reactions can also occur, leading to the formation of new chlorine- and oxygen-containing products. Transmission Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of adsorption and desorption of bleach and terpene oxidation products indicates that these chlorine- and oxygen-containing products strongly adsorb on both SiO2 and TiO2 surfaces for days, providing potential sources of human exposure and sinks for additional heterogeneous reactions.

Enantioselective halolactonizations of sterically less hindered alkenoic acid substrates without substituents on the carbon–carbon double bond have remained a formidable challenge. To address this limitation, we report herein the asymmetric bromolactonization of 5-hexenoic acid derivatives catalyzed by a BINOL-derived chiral bifunctional sulfide.

The biosynthetic installation of halogen atoms is largely performed by oxidative halogenases that target a wide array of electron-rich substrates, including aromatic compounds and conjugated systems. Halogenated alkyne-containing molecules are known to occur in Nature; however, halogen atom installation on the terminus of an alkyne has not been demonstrated in enzyme catalysis. Herein, we report the discovery and characterization of an alkynyl halogenase in natural product biosynthesis. We show that the flavin-dependent halogenase from the jamaicamide biosynthetic pathway, JamD, is not only capable of terminal alkyne halogenation on a late-stage intermediate en route to the final natural product but also has broad substrate tolerance for simple to complex alkynes. Furthermore, JamD is specific for terminal alkynes over other electron-rich aromatic substrates and belongs to a newly identified family of halogenases from marine cyanobacteria, indicating its potential as a chemoselective biocatalyst for the formation of haloalkynes.

Abstract This study focuses on understanding the structural and molecular changes in lipid membranes under the influence of six halogenated flavonoid derivatives differing in the number and position of substitution of chlorine and bromine atoms (D1–D6). Utilizing various analytical techniques, including fluorometric methods, dynamic light scattering (DLS), attenuated Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR- FTIR), and FT-Raman spectroscopy, the research aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the interaction of flavonoids with cell membranes. Additionally, the study includes in silico analyses to explore the physicochemical properties of these compounds and their potential pharmaceutical applications, along with toxicity studies to assess their effects on cancer, normal, and red blood cells. Our study showed the ability of halogenated derivatives to interact mostly with the outer part of the membrane, especially in the lipid heads region however, some of them were able to penetrate deeper into the membrane and affect the fluidity of hydrocarbon chains. The potential to reduce cancer cell viability, the lack of toxicity towards erythrocytes, and the favourable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties suggest these halogenated flavonoids potential candidates for exploring their potential for medical use.

We disclose a benzylic C−H oxidative coupling reaction with alcohols that proceeds through a synergistic deprotonation, halogenation and substitution sequence. The combination of tert‐butoxide bases with 2‐halothiophene halogen oxidants enables the first general protocol for generating and using benzyl halides through a deprotonative pathway. In contrast to existing radical‐based methods for C−H functionalization, this process is guided by C−H acidity trends. This gives rise to new synthetic capabilities, including the ability to functionalize diverse methyl(hetero)arenes, tolerance of oxidizable and nucleophilic functional groups, precision site‐selectivity for polyalkylarenes and use of a double C−H etherification process to controllably oxidize methylarenes to benzaldehydes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C2′-halogenation has been recognized as an essential modification to enhance the drug-like properties of nucleotide analogs. The direct C2ʹ-halogenation of the nucleotide 2′-deoxyadenosine-5′-monophosphate (dAMP) has recently been achieved using the Fe(II)/α-ketoglutarate-dependent nucleotide halogenase AdaV. However, the limited substrate scope of this enzyme hampers its broader applications. In this study, we report two halogenases capable of halogenating 2ʹ-deoxyguanosine monophosphate (dGMP), thereby expanding the family of nucleotide halogenases. Computational studies reveal that nucleotide specificity is regulated by the binding pose of the phosphate group. Based on these findings, we successfully engineered the substrate specificity of these halogenases by mutating second-sphere residues. This work expands the toolbox of nucleotide halogenases and provides insights into the regulation mechanism of nucleotide specificity. The direct C2ʹ halogenation of the nucleotide 2′-deoxyadenosine-5′-monophosphate (dAMP) was achieved using the Fe(II)/α-ketoglutarate dependent nucleotide halogenase AdaV, but the limited substrate scope of this enzyme hinders its application. Here, the authors discover two halogenases capable of halogenating 2ʹ-deoxyguanosine monophosphate (dGMP) and reveal that nucleotide specificity is regulated by the binding pose of the phosphate group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis of two novel halogenated nitro-arylhimachalene derivatives: 2-bromo-3,5,5,9-tetramethyl-1-nitro-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzo[7]annulene (bromo-nitro-arylhimachalene) and 2-chloro-3,5,5,9-tetramethyl-1,4-dinitro-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzo[7]annulene (chloro-dinitro-arylhimachalene). These compounds were derived from arylhimachalene, an important sesquiterpene component of Atlas cedar essential oil, via a two-step halogenation and nitration process. Characterization was performed using 1H and 13C NMR spectrometry, complemented by X-ray structural analysis. Quantum chemical calculations employing density functional theory (DFT) with the Becke3-Lee-Yang-parr (B3LYP) functional and a 6-31++G(d,p) basis set were conducted. The optimized geometries of the synthesized compounds were consistent with X-ray structure data. Frontier molecular orbitals and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) profiles were identified and discussed. DFT reactivity indices provided insights into the compounds' behaviors. Moreover, Hirshfeld surface and 2D fingerprint analyses revealed significant intermolecular interactions within the crystal structures, predominantly H–H and H–O contacts. Molecular docking studies demonstrate strong binding affinities of the synthesized compounds to the active site of protein 7B2W, suggesting potential therapeutic applications against various isolated smooth muscles and neurotransmitters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzymatic electrophilic halogenation is a mild tool for functionalization of diverse organic compounds. Only a few groups of native halogenases are capable of catalyzing such a reaction. In this study, we used a mechanism‐guided strategy to discover the electrophilic halogenation activity catalyzed by non‐native halogenases. As the ability to form a hypohalous acid (HOX) is key for halogenation, flavin‐dependent monooxygenases/oxidases capable of forming C4a‐hydroperoxyflavin (FlC4a‐OOH), such as dehalogenase, hydroxylases, luciferase and pyranose‐2‐oxidase (P2O), and flavin reductase capable of forming H2O2 were explored for their abilities to generate HOX in situ. Transient kinetic analyses using stopped‐flow spectrophotometry/fluorometry and product analysis indicate that FlC4a‐OOH in dehalogenases, selected hydroxylases and luciferases, but not in P2O can form HOX; however, the HOX generated from FlC4a‐OOH cannot halogenate their substrates. Remarkably, in situ H2O2 generated by P2O can form HOI and also iodinate various compounds. Because not all enzymes capable of forming FlC4a‐OOH can react with halides to form HOX, QM/MM calculations, site‐directed mutagenesis and structural analysis were carried out to elucidate the mechanism underlying HOX formation and characterize the active site environment. Our findings shed light on identifying new halogenase scaffolds besides the currently known enzymes and have invoked a new mode of chemoenzymatic halogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EHEC) is responsible for outbreaks of hemorrhagic colitis worldwide, but no effective therapy exists for EHEC infections. EHEC readily forms antimicrobial-tolerant biofilms on various biotic and abiotic surfaces. Here, we investigated the antimicrobial and antibiofilm abilities of 16 halogenated (fluoro-, chloro-, bromo-, or iodo-) indoles and indole against a pathogenic EHEC strain. Antibiofilm activities followed the order chloroindoles > bromoindoles > indole > fluoroindoles. For example, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 4-bromoindole and 5-bromoindole were 100 and 200 μg/mL, respectively, and at 20 μg/mL, they both inhibited EHEC biofilm formation by more than 61% without affecting planktonic cell growth. However, at concentrations greater than their MICs, both showed bactericidal activity. Antibiofilm effects were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Both 4-bromoindole and 5-bromoindole reduced swimming and swarming motility and curli formation, which are important factors for EHEC biofilm formation. Furthermore, quantitative structure–activity relationship analysis demonstrated that halogenation of indole with chlorine, bromine, or iodine at positions C-4 or C-5 promotes antimicrobial activity but that substitution at C-7 is detrimental. The study shows that halogenated indoles, particularly bromoindoles, have potential use as antimicrobial and antibiofilm therapies against EHEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dihydrogen bond (DHB) interaction that exists in ammoniated metal borohydride systems is recognized as an effective intermediate step involved in the evolution of H2 molecules. Mechanism of DHB formation and its electronic properties upon halogenations were explored for Mg(BH4)2·2NH3⋯M(BH3X) (where M = Li, Na, K, and X = H, F, Cl, and Br) systems using ab initio (MP2) and DFT (ωB97XD) calculations. The influence of halogens in varying the nature of the DHB that forms in Mg(BH4)2·2NH3⋯M(BH3X) complexes was explored with the Quantum Theory of Atoms In Molecule (QTAIM) analysis. Further, Energy decomposition analysis (EDA) was made to understand the strength of DHB interaction through the calculation of the Edisp term in interaction energy. The results obtained from EDA and QTAIM were found to correlate well with the structural parameter and the interaction energy values. This study reveals the influence of halogenations on tuning the electronic properties of DHB interaction in all the complexes. Our results suggest that the effective substitution of halogens in BH4 molecule enhances DHB interaction, and the impact of halogenations on DHB has been revealed through QTAIM, EDA, Natural Bond Order (NBO), Non-covalent Interaction (NCI), and Bader charge analyses. Dihydrogen bonds in ammine metal borohydride systems are responsible for its large hydrogen storage capacity. This study reveals the DHB interaction found in the chosen Mg(BH4)2.2NH3⋯M(BH3X) systems and their property enhancement upon introducing halogens through QTAIM parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation centres on the application of quantum chemistry to clarify the innovative synthetic pathway for Gefitinib derived from methyl 2-isocyano-4,5-dimethoxybenzoate. This pathway encompasses various chemical reactions such as cyclization, halogenation, regioselective demethylation, Williamson's ether synthesis, and nucleophilic aromatic substitution. The reaction necessitates the presence of four intermediate species and yields a total of 11 transition states [TS]. The energies of each reactant, intermediate, and product were determined through the utilisation of density functional theory (DFT) with B3LYP/6-311+G(d) serving as the basis set. The energy diagram that was obtained shows that the new plan that was suggested could follow an easy path to obtaining the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azetidines are valuable nitrogenous heterocycles. Herein, we disclose a strategy for the modular assembly of 3‐azetidines and related spirocyclic congeners featuring all‐carbon quaternary centers. This approach leverages titanacyclobutanes generated from ketones or alkenes. Halogenation of these organotitanium species gives rise to functionalized alkyl dihalides that can be subsequently captured by amines to afford azetidine building blocks. This strategy facilitated the synthesis of a small molecule anti‐tuberculosis drug. It also enabled access to carbon‐13 isotopologs of diazaspiro[3.3]heptane fragments that are challenging to prepare by any other means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As simple and versatile tools, additives have been widely used to refine active layer morphology and have played a crucial role in boosting the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs). Herein, three novel solvent additives named Th‐FSi, Th‐ClSi, and Th‐BrSi with the same backbone of 2,5‐bis(trimethylsilyl)thiophene are designed and synthesized by substituting different halogens of fluorine, chlorine, and bromine, respectively. Notably, Th‐ClSi exhibits the more significant dipole moment and engages in non‐covalent interactions with a small‐molecule acceptor (SMA) L8‐BO, which slight adjustments in intermolecular interaction, crystallinity, and molecular packing in the PM6:L8‐BO active layer. Consequently, the OSCs incorporating Th‐ClSi outperform their Th‐FSi and Th‐BrSi counterparts in photo‐capturing, reduced energy loss, superior exciton dissociation, and charge transfer properties, out‐coming yields in an enhanced PCE of 18.29%. Moreover, by integrating a near‐infrared absorbing SMA (BTP‐eC9) guest into the PM6:L8‐BO matrix, the absorption spectrum to span 880–930 nm, and the resultant ternary OSCs achieve a commendable PCE of 19.17%, ranking among the highest efficiencies reported to date is expanded. These findings underscore the promise of halogenated thiophene‐based solvent additives as a potent avenue for morphological fine‐tuning and consequent PCE enhancement in OSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed a straightforward and cost-effective construction of continuous-flow electrochemical reactors using readily available metal wires and carbon fibers as electrodes. Teflon tubing, known for its chemical resistance and temperature tolerance, served as the flow channels. The flow length and material of the electrodes can be easily adjusted. Moreover, precise control of the reaction temperature is possible. As a proof of concept, environmentally benign halogenations of alkenes, alkynes, and aromatics were developed using easy-to-handle halide salts such as LiBr and LiCl as the halogen sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine oxide, (HOCH2)3PO (THPO), is recognized as an efficient flame-retardant polyol and a derivative of PH3 – an environment-friendly, halogen-free source for phosphorus compounds and polymers. Synthesis and industrial production of THPO are based on straightforward oxidation of tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine, (HOCH2)3P (THP), or neutralized tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium chloride (THPC), or sulfate (THPS), by air/O2 or H2O2. In alkaline aqueous media, THP is oxidized by water with liberation of H2. As an alcohol, THPO readily reacts with isocyanates, epoxides, aziridines, and carboxylic acid derivatives, and is widely used as crosslinker or chain-extender to produce flame-retardant polyurethanes, polyethers, polyesters, and composite materials. Similarly, with compounds containing E–Cl bonds (E = P, Si, and S), THPO forms a variety of flame-retardant P/E-compounds or polymers. Condensation of THPO with phenols proceeds via cleavage of a P–C bond of THPO and liberation of CH2O that leads to flame-retardant THPO-phenol resins. With functionalized alkyl halides, THPO forms tris(alkoxymethyl)phosphine oxide monomers containing, for example, pendant allyl, propargyl, or silane groups. Halogenation of THPO leads to tris(chloromethyl)phosphine oxide, (ClCH2)3PO, or tris(bromomethyl)phosphine oxide, (BrCH2)3PO, useful for syntheses of multifunctional organophosphorus compounds, for example, tris(aminomethyl)phosphine oxide, (NH2CH2)3PO, and phosphorus-containing podands. Similar to THPO, tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphine sulfide, (HOCH2)3PS, is used in preparation of flame-retardant components for polymers, and, in synthesis of asymmetric phosphorus compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aryldiazonium salts remain a staple in organic synthesis and are still prepared largely in accord with the protocol developed in the 19th century. Because of the favorable reactivity that often cannot be achieved with other aryl(pseudo)halides, diazonium chemistry continues to grow. Facile extrusion of dinitrogen contributes to the desired reactivity but is also reason for safety concerns. Explosions have occurred since the discovery of these reagents and still result in accidents. In this study, we report a diazonium chemistry paradigm shift based on nitrate reduction using thiosulfate or dihalocuprates as electron donors that avoids diazonium accumulation. Because nitrate reduction is rate-limiting, aryldiazoniums are produced as fleeting intermediates, which results in a safer and often more efficient deaminative halogenation in a single step from anilines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4,4′‐Biazulene is a potentially attractive key component of an axially chiral biaryl compound, however, its structure and properties have not been clarified owing to the lack of its efficient synthesis. We report a breakthrough in the reliable synthesis of 4,4′‐biazulene, which is achieved by the access to azulen‐4‐ylboronic acid pinacol ester and 4‐iodoazulene as novel key synthetic intermediates for the Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. The X‐ray crystallographic analysis of 4,4′‐biazulene confirmed its axial chirality. The enantiomers of 4,4′‐biazulene were successfully resolved by HPLC on the chiral stationary phase column. The kinetic experiments and DFT calculations indicate that the racemization energy barrier of 4,4′‐biazulene is comparable to that of 1,1′‐binaphthyl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biphasic anodic oxidation method for aromatic halogenation process was developed, where aqueous metal salts were directly used as halogen source. Ammonium salts serve as both electrolytes and phase transfer catalysis to facilitate anion transport and oxidative transformation. This design allows for chlorination or nitration of multiple types of arenes using NaCl or KNO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the triply selective and sequential diversification of a single Csp3 carbon carrying Cl, Bpin and GeEt3 for the modular and programmable construction of sp3‐rich molecules. Various functionalizations of Csp3−Cl and Csp3−BPin (e.g. alkylation, arylation, homologation, amination, hydroxylation) were tolerated by the Csp3−GeEt3 group. Moreover, the methodological repertoire of alkyl germane functionalization was significantly expanded beyond the hitherto known Giese addition and arylation to alkynylation, alkenylation, cyanation, halogenation, azidation, C−S bond formation as well as the first demonstration of stereo‐selective functionalization of a Csp3‐[Ge] bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atropisomeric N-chloroamides were efficiently accessed by electrophilic halogenation of ortho-substituted secondary anilides. The stereodynamics of atropisomerism in these novel scaffolds was interrogated by detailed experimental and computational studies, revealing that racemization is correlated with amide isomerization. The stereoelectronic nature of the amide was shown to significantly influence racemization rates, with potentially important implications for other C-N atropisomeric scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the significance of sustainability in the chemical industry and the role of green catalysis in achieving sustainable development. It specifically focuses on the use of montmorillonite K10, a type of clay catalyst, in the halogenation of nitrogen heterocycles. The authors highlight the preparation and characterization of BF3@K10, a heterogeneous catalyst, and its effectiveness in synthesizing halo N-heterocycles. They propose microwave conditions and a heterogeneous catalyst as a solution for affordable and simple protocols in synthesizing 5-halouracil derivatives. The article also discusses the successful use of the catalyst BF3@K10 in halogenating various N-heterocycles, such as pyrimidines, pyrazoles, and aminopyridines, with high efficiency, short reaction times, and high yields. The authors compare this new protocol with previous methods and demonstrate its superiority, concluding that it offers a cost-effective and accessible approach to synthesizing halogenated heterocyclic compounds. [Extracted from the article]

Developing novel unfused building blocks with simple synthesis and low cost is essential to advance and enrich cost-effective polymer donors; however, it remains a challenge due to the lack of efficient molecular strategies. Herein, a class of low-cost and fully unfused polymer donors with precisely regulated backbone planarity via halogenation was designed and synthesized, namely PDTBTBz-2H, PDTBTBz-2F, and PDTBTBz-2Cl. These polymer donors possess a four-step synthesis route with over 80% yield from cheap raw chemicals comparable to existing low-cost polymer donors, such as PTQ10. Benefitting from the planar backbone via incorporating the F···S non-covalent interactions, PDTBTBz-2F exhibits more robust J-type aggregation in solution and a long-ranged molecular stacking in film relative to PDTBTBz-2H and PDTBTBz-2Cl. Moreover, the systematical study of PDTBTBz-based organic solar cells (OSCs) reveals the close relationship between optimized molecular self-assembly and charge separation/transport regarding backbone halogenation when paired with the non-fullerene acceptor (Y6-BO-4F). As a result, the photovoltaic devices based on semicrystalline PDTBTBz-2F achieved a promising power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.37%. Our work highlighted the influence of backbone halogenation on the molecular self-assembly properties and a potential unfused backbone motif for further developing cost-effective OSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol reacted with an equimolar amount of benzyltrimethylammonium tribromide to give 4-bromomethyl derivative but not 4-hydroxymethyl derivative as was reported earlier. The present work is devoted to the synthesis of 4-bromomethylphenols with bulky tert-butyl and/or isobornyl moieties at positions 2 and 6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Halogenation of Y‐series small‐molecule acceptors (Y‐SMAs) is identified as an effective strategy to optimize photoelectric properties for achieving improved power‐conversion‐efficiencies (PCEs) in binary organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the effect of different halogenation in the 2D‐structured large π‐fused core of guest Y‐SMAs on ternary OSCs has not yet been systematically studied. Herein, four 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs (X‐QTP‐4F, including halogen‐free H‐QTP‐4F, chlorinated Cl‐QTP‐4F, brominated Br‐QTP‐4F, and iodinated I‐QTP‐4F) by attaching different halogens into 2D‐conjugation extended dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core are developed. Among these X‐QTP‐4F, Cl‐QTP‐4F has a higher absorption coefficient, optimized molecular crystallinity and packing, suitable cascade energy levels, and complementary absorption with PM6:L8‐BO host. Moreover, among ternary PM6:L8‐BO:X‐QTP‐4F blends, PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F obtains a more uniform and size‐suitable fibrillary network morphology, improved molecular crystallinity and packing, as well as optimized vertical phase distribution, thus boosting charge generation, transport, extraction, and suppressing energy loss of OSCs. Consequently, the PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F‐based OSCs achieve a 19.0% efficiency, which is among the state‐of‐the‐art OSCs based on 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs and superior to these devices based on PM6:L8‐BO host (17.70%) and with guests of H‐QTP‐4F (18.23%), Br‐QTP‐4F (18.39%), and I‐QTP‐4F (17.62%). The work indicates that halogenation in 2D‐structured dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core of Y‐SMAs guests is a promising strategy to gain efficient ternary OSCs.

Biocatalytic C-H activation has the potential to merge enzymatic and synthetic strategies for bond formation. FeII/αKG-dependent halogenases are particularly distinguished for their ability both to control selective C-H activation as well as to direct group transfer of a bound anion along a reaction axis separate from oxygen rebound, enabling the development of new transformations. In this context, we elucidate the basis for the selectivity of enzymes that perform selective halogenation to yield 4-Cl-lysine (BesD), 5-Cl-lysine (HalB), and 4-Cl-ornithine (HalD), allowing us to probe how site-selectivity and chain length selectivity are achieved. We now report the crystal structure of the HalB and HalD, revealing the key role of the substrate-binding lid in positioning the substrate for C4 vs C5 chlorination and recognition of lysine vs ornithine. Targeted engineering of the substrate-binding lid further demonstrates that these selectivities can be altered or switched, showcasing the potential to develop halogenases for biocatalytic applications.