Show-Me State Times

University of Missouri researchers, in collaboration with Biohaven Pharmaceuticals, have developed a new chemical tool named AshPhos. This ligand aims to reduce the cost of prescription medications by facilitating the creation of carbon-nitrogen bonds, which are crucial in over half of all medicines available today.

Sachin Handa, an associate professor of chemistry at Mizzou’s College of Arts and Science, emphasized AshPhos's advantages: "What makes AshPhos special from other existing ligands is that it’s made from inexpensive and easy-to-find materials, and it is far better in terms of activity and efficiency."

AshPhos was designed to promote sustainable chemistry. According to Handa, "It’s eco-friendly because it’s made with less waste and uses materials from renewable sources." The tool also aims to make medicine production more affordable.

Handa shared his motivation for this work: “Witnessing people in India struggle to access essential health care during my childhood continues to motivate me to use my expertise as a chemist to create solutions that benefit society as a whole.”

Researchers plan to explore further applications for AshPhos beyond pharmaceuticals. One potential use is in creating nanomaterials for hydrogen evolution, a clean energy source. Another possibility involves using AshPhos with earth-abundant metals to degrade persistent pollutants known as PFAS or "forever chemicals."

The mechanics behind AshPhos involve stabilizing metal ions during reactions called Buchwald–Hartwig aminations. This process helps form carbon-nitrogen bonds in complex molecules that might otherwise deactivate catalysts without AshPhos.

AshPhos binds with palladium metal atoms, transforming them into catalysts necessary for these reactions. Handa explained its function: “It acts as a 'boss' by directing the metal what to do, ensuring the metal stays active and selective during the process.” Its ability to reattach itself after temporary detachment ensures continued catalytic activity.

Innovations like AshPhos highlight the contributions of Mizzou researchers such as Handa. His work contributes significantly towards powering initiatives like the Center for Energy Innovation at the University of Missouri.

Funding for this research was provided by grants from the U.S. National Science Foundation (CHE 2044778 and 2345856). Commercial interest in AshPhos has been expressed by entities across both the U.S. and Europe.

The Center for Energy Innovation at Mizzou focuses on addressing challenges related to energy concerns alongside artificial intelligence advancements. It seeks sustainable solutions through collaboration among various experts including engineers, agronomists, physicists, chemists, and public policy specialists.