What is the Domino Reaction? #mechanism #science #chemistry #organicsynthesis #stereochemistry

What is the Domino Reaction? #mechanism #science #chemistry #organicsynthesis #stereochemistry

Domino reactions are not a new invention; nature, as a chemist, has been using this approach for billions of years. Cholesterol has been identified as a key component in maintaining cellular clarity. In its biosynthesis pathway, 2,3-oxidosqualene is converted to lanosterol in a domino process in which lanosterol synthase enzyme catalyzes this transformation. As you see in this beautiful reaction, four carbon-carbon bonds form during the cyclization process with a high level of accuracy of inside stereocenters. Mapping out such an effective synthesis plan is an extraordinary feat.

Keywords

• Domino reaction
• Cholesterol
• Cell clarity
• Biosynthesis pathway
• 2,3-oxidosqualene
• Lanosterol
• Lanosterol synthase enzyme
• Cyclization process
• Carbon-carbon bonds
• Stereocenters

FAQ

Q: What is a domino reaction?
A: A domino reaction is a sequential chemical process where multiple bond-forming events occur in a single operation, often catalyzed by enzymes or specific conditions, resulting in complex molecules.

Q: How has nature used domino reactions?
A: Nature has been utilizing domino reactions for billions of years, particularly in the biosynthesis of essential compounds like cholesterol.

Q: What role does cholesterol play in cellular processes?
A: Cholesterol is essential in maintaining cellular clarity and is involved in various biochemical pathways.

Q: What enzyme catalyzes the conversion of 2,3-oxidosqualene to lanosterol?
A: The lanosterol synthase enzyme catalyzes this transformation.

Q: How many carbon-carbon bonds form during the cyclization process in the conversion of 2,3-oxidosqualene to lanosterol?
A: Four carbon-carbon bonds form during this process.

Q: Why is mapping out an effective synthesis plan important?
A: It is crucial because it ensures the formation of complex molecules with high accuracy and efficiency, particularly with regard to the stereochemistry of the synthesized compounds.