Scientific Sessions

Asymmetric catalysis, also known as enantioselective catalysis, is a powerful and widely used approach in modern synthetic chemistry that enables the formation of chiral molecules with high selectivity. Chirality is a fundamental property in chemistry, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, where different enantiomers of a compound can have drastically different biological activities. Asymmetric catalysis involves the use of chiral catalysts to preferentially produce one enantiomer over another in a chemical reaction. These catalysts, which can be based on metals, organocatalysts, or enzymes, create an asymmetric environment that directs the reaction pathway. This allows for efficient synthesis of optically pure compounds without the need for tedious resolution processes.

Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in the development of chiral ligands and catalytic systems, leading to a wide range of applications in the synthesis of complex molecules. Notably, asymmetric catalysis has played a crucial role in the production of numerous drugs, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. The field continues to evolve with advancements in sustainable and green chemistry, as researchers aim to develop catalysts that are not only highly selective but also environmentally benign and economically viable. Techniques such as high-throughput screening and computational modeling are accelerating catalyst design and discovery. The continued exploration of asymmetric catalysis is expected to impact various industries, enhancing the precision and efficiency of chemical synthesis while reducing waste and environmental impact.