Journal Description
Organics
Organics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on organic chemistry published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 22.3 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Journal Cluster of Chemical Reactions and Catalysis: Catalysts, Chemistry, Electrochem, Inorganics, Molecules, Organics, Oxygen, Photochem, Reactions, Sustainable Chemistry.
Impact Factor:
1.6 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
1.8 (2024)
Latest Articles
Revised Formal Total Synthesis of Dehydro-δ-Viniferin and Anigopreissin A
Organics 2026, 7(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7020017 - 16 Apr 2026
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This work presents a revised total synthesis of two pharmacologically relevant benzofurans using newly developed environmentally friendly methodologies. In particular, we focused on establishing improved synthetic routes to stilbene dimers under milder and more sustainable reaction conditions. During our investigations, we optimized an
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This work presents a revised total synthesis of two pharmacologically relevant benzofurans using newly developed environmentally friendly methodologies. In particular, we focused on establishing improved synthetic routes to stilbene dimers under milder and more sustainable reaction conditions. During our investigations, we optimized an efficient Sonogashira coupling carried out in water, which, followed by a Suzuki-like reaction conducted in dimethyl carbonate (DMC) in the absence of any transition metals, served as the key step for the synthesis of the benzofuran core.
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Open AccessReview
Recent Developments in Chemical Synthesis and Biological Activities of Aloe-Emodin Derivatives
by
Jeltzlin Semerel, Nigel John, Pedro Fardim and Wim Dehaen
Organics 2026, 7(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7020016 - 10 Apr 2026
Abstract
Aloe-emodin is an anthraquinone with a wide range of medicinal applications, including anti-angiogenic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. In this review, the functionalization of aloe-emodin using various synthetic methods, including alkylation, condensation, esterification, the Finkelstein reaction, and the Kabachnik–Fields reaction was
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Aloe-emodin is an anthraquinone with a wide range of medicinal applications, including anti-angiogenic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. In this review, the functionalization of aloe-emodin using various synthetic methods, including alkylation, condensation, esterification, the Finkelstein reaction, and the Kabachnik–Fields reaction was reported. The biological activity of the synthesized aloe-emodin derivatives is discussed, with a focus on their potential future applications as anticancer agents, enzyme inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, and antimicrobial agents. This review also discusses the structure–activity relationship (SAR) and the mechanism of action (e.g., molecular docking studies, cell membrane-disrupting capacity, and apoptosis studies). This review highlights the many contributions made towards the design and development of novel, biologically active aloe-emodin derivatives.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Research Papers in Organics)
Open AccessArticle
Synthesis, Characterization, and Multidimensional In Silico Evaluation of Novel Etodolac-Based 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
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Tiba M. Hameed, Rafid M. Hashim, S. J. Abed, Raneen Hashim Ridha and O. Al-Mohammed Baqer
Organics 2026, 7(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7020015 - 7 Apr 2026
Abstract
A new series of eight novel etodolac-based 1,3,4-oxadiazoles was synthesized, characterized, and tested in silico in multidimensional routes, starting with etodolac, a well-known nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). In silico studies were performed prior to synthesis using the molecular docking technique in CCDC GOLD
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A new series of eight novel etodolac-based 1,3,4-oxadiazoles was synthesized, characterized, and tested in silico in multidimensional routes, starting with etodolac, a well-known nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). In silico studies were performed prior to synthesis using the molecular docking technique in CCDC GOLD suite software (2025.3) to assess the interactions with two key targets involved in cancer pathogenesis: the crystal structure of the epidermal growth factor receptor EGFR tyrosine kinase domain (PDB ID: 4HJO) and the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) complex (PDB ID: 5CUH). ADME studies were performed to assess the physicochemical properties of the synthesized molecules. Importantly, biotransformation prediction also indicated that the derivatives possess high metabolic stability, with hydroxylation of the thio-ether group as the primary predicted biotransformation route. All compounds were characterized using melting point, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. In vitro and/or in vivo experiments are needed to confirm this preliminary anticancer study.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Research Papers in Organics)
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Open AccessArticle
Salophen-Type Ni(II) Schiff Base Complexes Derived from Naphthalene Aldehydes and Their Application as Catalysts for the Methanol Electro-Oxidation Reaction
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Fabiola Hernández-García, Emanuel Pérez-Martínez, Raúl Colorado-Peralta, Jesús Antonio Cruz-Navarro and David Morales-Morales
Organics 2026, 7(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010014 - 19 Mar 2026
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Salophen-type Schiff base ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and naphthalene aldehydes were synthesized and coordinated to Ni(II) to obtain three nickel complexes (NiL1–NiL3), which were evaluated as heterogeneous electrocatalysts for the methanol electro-oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkaline media. The ligands and complexes were fully
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Salophen-type Schiff base ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and naphthalene aldehydes were synthesized and coordinated to Ni(II) to obtain three nickel complexes (NiL1–NiL3), which were evaluated as heterogeneous electrocatalysts for the methanol electro-oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkaline media. The ligands and complexes were fully characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, EPR, DART-MS, and elemental analysis, confirming tetradentate coordination through imine nitrogen and phenoxide oxygen donors. Electrochemical studies were carried out using carbon paste electrodes modified with 15 wt % of each complex. Cyclic voltammetry revealed that the electrocatalytic activity is mediated by the Ni(II)/Ni(III) redox couple, with Ni(III) oxohydroxide species acting as the active sites for methanol oxidation. Among the evaluated systems, NiL1@CPE showed superior performance at low methanol concentrations, while NiL2@CPE and NiL3@CPE exhibited higher current densities at elevated methanol concentrations. Scan-rate studies indicated that the oxidation process is diffusion-controlled, and a linear response to methanol concentration was observed over a wide concentration range. The results demonstrate that ligand structure and coordination geometry play a crucial role in modulating the electrocatalytic behavior of Ni(II) Schiff base complexes, highlighting their potential as cost-effective molecular catalysts for alkaline methanol oxidation.
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Open AccessArticle
Frontier Orbitals and Charges Approaches in Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution: The Cases of Anisole and Benzaldehyde
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Lucia Emanuele, Rocco Racioppi and Maurizio D’Auria
Organics 2026, 7(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010013 - 4 Mar 2026
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The study aimed to verify the possible use of DFT calculation in the prediction of the orientation in electrophilic aromatic substitution. An activated ortho/para orienting substrate, and a deactivated meta orienting substrate, were used in DFT calculations using B3LYP, B3PW91, BPV86, CAM-B3LP, HCTH,
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The study aimed to verify the possible use of DFT calculation in the prediction of the orientation in electrophilic aromatic substitution. An activated ortho/para orienting substrate, and a deactivated meta orienting substrate, were used in DFT calculations using B3LYP, B3PW91, BPV86, CAM-B3LP, HCTH, HSEH1PBE, LSDA, MPW1PW91, PBEPBE, TPSSTPSS, and WB97XD functionals. The results showed that the reactivity of anisole can be adequately described considering charge control in reaction performed in hard conditions (nitration), while frontier orbital control can play a role in reactions performed in softer conditions (chlorination). Nitration of benzaldehyde can be rationalized through Hirshfeld charges analysis. Neither the frontier orbital nor Mulliken charges approach adequately account for behavior observed in chlorination of benzaldehyde. The effect of different basis sets was tested performing calculations with B3LYP functional and aug-cc-pVDZ, 6-311G+(d,p), aug-cc-pVQZ, DGTZVP, and LanL2DZ basis sets. For anisole, all basis sets provided a HOMO electron density distribution consistent with experimental reactivity; Hirshfeld charges analysis consistently reproduced the observed reactivity of anisole across all tested basis sets. All the basis sets were able to explain the observed reactivity of benzaldehyde in hard experimental condition, while they failed to give a correct description when a softer reagent was used.
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Open AccessArticle
Linear Stepwise Synthesis of 2-(Naphthalen-1-yl)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-1H-isoquinolino[8,1,2-hij]quinazoline: A Novel Fused Heteroaromatic Framework
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Augusto Rivera, Álvaro Castillo, Jaime Ríos-Motta and Diego Quiroga
Organics 2026, 7(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010012 - 3 Mar 2026
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In the present work, we describe the synthesis of a new heterocyclic derivative, 2-(naphthalen-1-yl)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-1H-isoquinolino[8,1,2-hij]quinazoline 1, using the reaction between the aminal 1,3,6,8-tetraazatricyclo[4.4.1.13,8]dodecane 2 (TATD) and 1-naphthylamine 3 as the first scaffold of a four-step linear synthetic
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In the present work, we describe the synthesis of a new heterocyclic derivative, 2-(naphthalen-1-yl)-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-1H-isoquinolino[8,1,2-hij]quinazoline 1, using the reaction between the aminal 1,3,6,8-tetraazatricyclo[4.4.1.13,8]dodecane 2 (TATD) and 1-naphthylamine 3 as the first scaffold of a four-step linear synthetic route. In the first step, a condensation catalyzed by acetic acid in 96% ethanol was carried out, leading to the formation of the intermediate 3-(naphthalen-1-yl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazoline 4. Subsequently, this intermediate was acylated with 2-chloroacetyl chloride in the presence of triethylamine and under an inert atmosphere, obtaining the compound 2-chloro-1-(3-(naphthalen-1-yl)-3,4-dihydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-1(2H)-yl)ethan-1-one 5. In the third step, an intramolecular Friedel–Crafts cyclization was carried out using aluminum trichloride as a catalyst, yielding 2-(naphthalen-1-yl)-1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-5H-isoquinolino[8,1,2-hij]quinazolin-5-one 6. Finally, the reduction of this lactam with phosphorus pentachloride and sodium borohydride under anhydrous conditions led to the further closure of the polycyclic system, yielding the final product 1. The proposed route demonstrates the feasibility of using TATD 2 as a versatile precursor for constructing condensed heterocyclic systems of structural interest and potential relevance in advanced organic synthesis.
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Open AccessCommunication
Synthesis and Evaluation of Cytotoxic Activity of 2-Aryl-2-(3-Indolyl)Propionic Acid Derivatives
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Alexander V. Aksenov, Nicolai A. Aksenov, Nikolai A. Arutiunov, Dmitrii A. Aksenov, Anna M. Zatsepilina, Daria I. Murashkina, Maksim O. Shcheglov and Sergei N. Ovcharov
Organics 2026, 7(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010011 - 3 Mar 2026
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2-Aryl-2-(3-indolyl)acetohydroxamic acids have emerged as promising antitumor agents; however, their poor pharmacokinetic profile remains a significant drawback. To address this limitation, we have synthesized a homolog of such acids—specifically 2-aryl-2-(3-indolyl)propionic acid (IC50 > 100 mM (U87)), along with several other derivatives: ethyl
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2-Aryl-2-(3-indolyl)acetohydroxamic acids have emerged as promising antitumor agents; however, their poor pharmacokinetic profile remains a significant drawback. To address this limitation, we have synthesized a homolog of such acids—specifically 2-aryl-2-(3-indolyl)propionic acid (IC50 > 100 mM (U87)), along with several other derivatives: ethyl ester (IC50 > 100 mM (U87)), hydroxamate (IC50 21.2 ± 1.0 mM (U87)) and hydrazide (IC50 > 100 mM (U87)). The cytotoxicity of these compounds against glioblastoma cell lines was evaluated and compared to that of the parent acetohydroxamic acid derivatives.
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Systematic Investigation of the Solvation Structure in THF-Based Localized High-Concentration Electrolytes
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Yoonha Hwang, Yeo Jin An, Soohyun Sim and Minjeong Shin
Organics 2026, 7(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010010 - 14 Feb 2026
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Understanding Li+ solvation structure is critical for the rational design of high- and localized high-concentration electrolytes. Here, we present a systematic investigation of tetrahydrofuran (THF)-based electrolytes with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) using Raman spectroscopy and 7Li nuclear magnetic resonance to investigate the
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Understanding Li+ solvation structure is critical for the rational design of high- and localized high-concentration electrolytes. Here, we present a systematic investigation of tetrahydrofuran (THF)-based electrolytes with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) using Raman spectroscopy and 7Li nuclear magnetic resonance to investigate the local solvation structures. By varying the THF:LiTFSI molar ratio, we observed a transition of Li+ solvation from solvent-separated ion pairs to contact ion pairs and aggregates, accompanied by increased structural heterogeneity and constrained local dynamics. Raman spectroscopy captures the evolution of Li+–anion coordination with increasing salt concentration, while 7Li NMR chemical shifts, line widths, and relaxation times provide complementary insight into changes in the electronic environment and symmetry of Li+ coordination. Electrolyte structure is further examined by introducing a hydrofluoroether co-solvent into a concentrated (THF)2–LiTFSI electrolyte. Raman results show that the local Li+–TFSI− coordination structure is preserved upon 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl-2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE) addition, whereas NMR reveals subtle modifications of the ion-rich solvation clusters. These results provide fundamental insight into Li+ solvation and electrolyte localization, offering general design principles for advanced electrolyte systems.
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Open AccessArticle
Phosphate Monoester Hydrolysis by Supramolecular Phosphatases Functionalized with Lewis Acidic Moieties in Two-Phase Solvent Systems
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Hirokazu Okamoto, Ayane Nomoto, Dahiru Umar Liman, Akib Bin Rahman, Toshifumi Tojo and Shin Aoki
Organics 2026, 7(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010009 - 13 Feb 2026
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Protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation reactions of intracellular molecules catalyzed by enzymes such as kinases and phosphatases are essential reactions in a lot of cellular functions such as intracellular signal transduction in living systems. The design and synthesis of artificial enzyme mimics are important
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Protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation reactions of intracellular molecules catalyzed by enzymes such as kinases and phosphatases are essential reactions in a lot of cellular functions such as intracellular signal transduction in living systems. The design and synthesis of artificial enzyme mimics are important research topics in bioorganic and bioinorganic chemistry. In this paper, we report on the construction of artificial phosphatases via the supramolecular self-assembly of compounds such as an amphiphilic bis(Zn2+-cyclen) (cyclen = 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane) complex, barbital derivatives modified with benzocrown ethers and boronophenyl groups, and a copper(II) ion in a two-phase solvent system. We have developed a hypothesis whereby a mono(4-nitrophenyl)phosphate (MNP) substrate coordinates to the Cu2(µ-OH)2 core in supramolecular complexes and is activated either by Lewis acidic units such as alkali metal (Li+, Na+ and K+)-benzocrown ether complexes or by boronophenyl moieties. The findings suggest that supramolecular phosphatase functionalized with a benzo-12-crown-4-Li+ complex shows a higher level of activity in the MNP hydrolysis of a two-phase solvent system compared with that of our previous supramolecular phosphatases in terms of hydrolysis activity and catalytic turnover.
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A Quantum Chemical Study on the Relative Stability of Diaminodinitroethylene Isomers
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Krzysztof K. Zborowski and Urszula Lelek-Borkowska
Organics 2026, 7(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010008 - 10 Feb 2026
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This study aims to investigate the relative stability of the diaminodinitroethylene isomers (cis, trans, and gem). To achieve this goal, calculations at several levels of theory were carried out. The B3LYP, PBE0, and CAM-B3LYP functionals, based on density functional theory (DFT), were used.
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This study aims to investigate the relative stability of the diaminodinitroethylene isomers (cis, trans, and gem). To achieve this goal, calculations at several levels of theory were carried out. The B3LYP, PBE0, and CAM-B3LYP functionals, based on density functional theory (DFT), were used. G4 and MP2 calculations were also executed. All calculation methods predicted that the gem isomer is the most stable, while the cis isomer is the least stable. The energy order obtained for the isomers studied was rationalized by analysis of the detected intramolecular hydrogen bonding, electron delocalization, charge distribution, and changes in atomic energies in the structures studied. The origins of the superior stability of the gem isomer are demonstrated and justified.
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Open AccessCommunication
Chemo- and Regioselective 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Nitrile Imines to 5-Arylmethylene-2-methylthiohydantoins
by
Maria E. Filkina, Lev A. Lintsov, Victor A. Tafeenko, Maxim E. Kukushkin and Elena K. Beloglazkina
Organics 2026, 7(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010007 - 3 Feb 2026
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1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition reactions of nitrile imines are a powerful tool for the construction of spirocyclic frameworks, yet controlling chemoselectivity remains challenging when dipolarophiles contain multiple reactive sites. In this study, we investigated the cycloaddition of nitrile imines with 5-arylmethylene-2-methylthiohydantoins, which possess both exocyclic
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1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition reactions of nitrile imines are a powerful tool for the construction of spirocyclic frameworks, yet controlling chemoselectivity remains challenging when dipolarophiles contain multiple reactive sites. In this study, we investigated the cycloaddition of nitrile imines with 5-arylmethylene-2-methylthiohydantoins, which possess both exocyclic C=C and endocyclic C=N bonds. Nitrile imines were generated from hydrazonoyl chlorides under basic conditions and reacted with the thiohydantoin substrates under optimized reaction conditions. The cycloaddition proceeded smoothly, affording spiro-fused thiohydantoin–pyrazoline derivatives. In all cases, the reaction occurred selectively at the exocyclic C=C bond, while the C=N bond remained unreactive even in the presence of excess dipole. This chemoselectivity is attributed to the greater steric accessibility of the exocyclic double bond. These results clarify key factors governing nitrile imine chemoselectivity and provide a reliable approach to structurally complex spirocyclic thiohydantoin derivatives.
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Open AccessArticle
Design of Sustainable Copper-Based Hybrid Catalyst Using Aqueous Extract of Curcuma longa L. for One-Pot Synthesis of 1,2,3-Triazole
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Felipe Pinto, Isadora Barbosa Frederico, Conceição F. A. Olguin, Gabrielle Peiter, Julia C. M. Willig, Helio A. Stefani, Giancarlo V. Botteselle and Flavia Manarin
Organics 2026, 7(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010006 - 23 Jan 2026
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A sustainable hybrid material, CuO/Cu2O, was synthesized using an aqueous extract of Curcuma longa L. as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The material was characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and TEM. XRD analysis revealed peaks corresponding to CuO
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A sustainable hybrid material, CuO/Cu2O, was synthesized using an aqueous extract of Curcuma longa L. as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The material was characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and TEM. XRD analysis revealed peaks corresponding to CuO and Cu2O phases with crystallite sizes of 15.88 nm and 16.71 nm, respectively. TEM images showed nearly spherical particles with some agglomeration and an average particle diameter of 8.17 nm. The hybrid material exhibited catalytic activity toward the synthesis of 1,2,3-triazoles in water, under low catalyst loading and mild reaction conditions. This work highlights the potential of Curcuma longa-mediated synthesis as a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative for producing efficient catalysts, contributing to the advancement of green chemistry and sustainable nanomaterial applications in organic synthesis.
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Aqueous Radical Photopolymerization Catalyzed by Resorufin
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Wenqiao Zhou and Chunming Liu
Organics 2026, 7(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010005 - 15 Jan 2026
Cited by 1
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Commercially available resorufin was shown to function as an organic photocatalyst for visible-light-induced aqueous radical polymerization under low-irradiance illumination. Polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions and high monomer conversions were successfully synthesized from acrylate and acrylamide monomers. The photopolymerization catalyzed by resorufin was
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Commercially available resorufin was shown to function as an organic photocatalyst for visible-light-induced aqueous radical polymerization under low-irradiance illumination. Polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions and high monomer conversions were successfully synthesized from acrylate and acrylamide monomers. The photopolymerization catalyzed by resorufin was consistent with a reductive quenching mechanism. Good temporal control of the reaction was achieved by toggling visible light irradiation.
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Open AccessArticle
Metalloenzyme-like Catalytic System for the Epoxidation of Olefins with Dioxygen Under Ambient Conditions
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Lin Lei, Linjian Wu, Yongjian Qiu and Yaju Chen
Organics 2026, 7(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010004 - 7 Jan 2026
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The development of a metalloenzyme-like catalytic system for the efficient oxidation of olefins under a dioxygen (O2) atmosphere at room temperature is of significant interest in the field of catalysis. Herein, we present a highly active and selective aerobic epoxidation of
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The development of a metalloenzyme-like catalytic system for the efficient oxidation of olefins under a dioxygen (O2) atmosphere at room temperature is of significant interest in the field of catalysis. Herein, we present a highly active and selective aerobic epoxidation of olefins using metalloenzyme-like catalysts based on a non-heme ligand, tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TPA). Notably, manganese chloride complexed with TPA (Mn(TPA)Cl2) demonstrated excellent activity for the epoxidation of trans-stilbene using O2 as the oxidant in the presence of a co-reductant at 30 °C. A quantitative conversion of 99% and high yield of 98%, as determined by gas chromatography using an external standard method, were achieved under optimum reaction conditions. Furthermore, Mn(TPA)Cl2 exhibited a good substrate tolerance to styrene derivatives with electron-withdrawing or electron-donating groups, cyclic olefins with different substituents and substitution degrees, as well as long-chain olefins. Coupled with a high turnover frequency (TOF) of up to 30,720 h−1, these results underscore the potential of Mn(TPA)Cl2 as a promising metalloenzyme-like catalytic platform for the aerobic synthesis of diverse epoxides from olefins under ambient conditions.
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Evaluation of Natural Dye Extracts from African Plants for the Photooxygenation of α-Terpinene to the Anthelmintic Ascaridole
by
Chinyere Chidimma Enyi, Gloria Ihuoma Ndukwe, Godswill Kuta Fekarurhobo and Michael Oelgemöller
Organics 2026, 7(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010003 - 5 Jan 2026
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In this study, the singlet oxygen photosensitization potential of three natural African plant extracts was investigated using the photooxygenation of α-terpinene (1). Utilizing visible light, the Carpolobia lutea extract achieved high conversions towards the anthelmintic ascaridole (2) of >60%
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In this study, the singlet oxygen photosensitization potential of three natural African plant extracts was investigated using the photooxygenation of α-terpinene (1). Utilizing visible light, the Carpolobia lutea extract achieved high conversions towards the anthelmintic ascaridole (2) of >60% after 90 min of irradiation, while the extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa and Justicia secunda failed to induce significant photoreactivity. Quenching using 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) confirmed a singlet oxygen pathway for irradiation with the C. lutea extract. Further separation of the C. lutea extract and subsequent photooxygenation screening established several active fractions for ascaridole generation. Advanced HPLC–MS analyses of these active fractions revealed several photosensitizing constituents. These findings establish C. lutea extract as a sustainable and effective photosensitiser with comparable performance to commercial dyes.
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Open AccessArticle
Helical Molecular Cages with sp-Conjugated Linkages
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Wei Wu, Takahiro Kojima and Hiroshi Sakaguchi
Organics 2026, 7(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010002 - 25 Dec 2025
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A conjugated helical cage, comprising two 1,3,5-tris(phenylethynyl)benzene units connected by diyne linkers, was successfully synthesized. X-ray crystallography revealed helical molecular structures with large twisted angles and a 1:1 mixture of P- and M-enantiomers. Variable-temperature-NMR measurement indicated the racemization process between the enantiomers
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A conjugated helical cage, comprising two 1,3,5-tris(phenylethynyl)benzene units connected by diyne linkers, was successfully synthesized. X-ray crystallography revealed helical molecular structures with large twisted angles and a 1:1 mixture of P- and M-enantiomers. Variable-temperature-NMR measurement indicated the racemization process between the enantiomers occurs rapidly on the NMR timescale. The rapid interconversion is attributed to the flexible diyne linkages, even though they were believed to be rigid.
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Open AccessArticle
Photodynamic Agents of Synthetic Curcuminoids with Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities
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Sung-Jen Hung, Lo-Yun Chiang, Yi-An Hong, Kai-Chih Chang, Yang-Je Cheng, Hsin-Ying Wu, Hussana Hamid, Anren Hu, Tzenge-Lien Shih and Hao-Ping Chen
Organics 2026, 7(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/org7010001 - 23 Dec 2025
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Our previous study demonstrated that thiophene-substituted synthetic curcumin analogs possessed better antibacterial activity and stability than natural curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, or bisdemethoxycurcumin in antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). In addition, the activity of the furan-substituted analogs was weaker than that of the thiophene-substituted compounds. As
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Our previous study demonstrated that thiophene-substituted synthetic curcumin analogs possessed better antibacterial activity and stability than natural curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, or bisdemethoxycurcumin in antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). In addition, the activity of the furan-substituted analogs was weaker than that of the thiophene-substituted compounds. As oxygen, sulfur, and selenium belong to the same group in the periodic table, the antibacterial and anticancer activities of these three different elemental analogs were compared and investigated. The thiophene-substituted analog (compound 3) exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity in aPDT experiments. However, the furan-substituted analog (compound 1) exhibited the most potent anticancer activity. These results indicate that the differences in atomic radii or energy levels in these compounds produce different cell-attack results on generated free radicals. Ruthenium(II) complexes have a good reputation for use in PDT for cancer treatment. Our results show that complexation of ruthenium(II) with thiophene-substituted curcumin analogs does not enhance their antibacterial or anticancer activity.
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Tranexamic Acid-Phenol Smart Scaffolds with Imine Linker: Unlocking Antimicrobial Potential Through In Vitro and In Silico Insights
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Jovana S. Dragojević, Žiko Milanović, Kristina Milisavljević, Nevena Petrović, Jelena Petronijević, Nenad Joksimović, Vera M. Divac, Marijana Kosanić and Marina D. Kostić
Organics 2025, 6(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/org6040054 - 16 Dec 2025
Cited by 1
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A novel series of Schiff bases (3a–3k), incorporating tranexamic acid (TXA) and phenol-derived aldehydes via imine linkers, was synthesized and structurally characterized. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was evaluated against a range of clinically and environmentally relevant bacterial
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A novel series of Schiff bases (3a–3k), incorporating tranexamic acid (TXA) and phenol-derived aldehydes via imine linkers, was synthesized and structurally characterized. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was evaluated against a range of clinically and environmentally relevant bacterial and fungal strains. Among them, derivatives 3i and 3k, bearing bromine and chlorine substituents on the phenol ring, exhibited the most potent antimicrobial effects, particularly against Penicillium italicum and Proteus mirabilis (MIC as low as 0.014 mg/mL). To elucidate the underlying mechanism of action, in silico molecular docking studies were conducted, revealing strong binding affinities of 3i and 3k toward fungal sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51B), with predicted binding energies surpassing those of the reference antifungal ketoconazole. Additionally, UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy assays demonstrated good stability of compound 3k in PBS and its effective binding to human serum albumin (HSA), respectively. ADMET and ProTox-II predictions further supported the drug-likeness, low toxicity (Class 4), and favorable pharmacokinetic profile of compound 3k. Collectively, these findings highlight TXA–phenol imine derivatives as promising scaffolds for the development of next-generation antimicrobial agents, particularly targeting resistant fungal pathogens.
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Theoretical Modeling of BODIPY-Helicene Circularly Polarized Luminescence
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Giovanni Bella, Giuseppe Bruno and Antonio Santoro
Organics 2025, 6(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/org6040053 - 5 Dec 2025
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Density functional theory (DFT) and its extension, time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT), have become fundamental tools for modeling chiral excited states and supporting experimental chiroptical spectroscopies. In this connection, the interest in understanding the asymmetric emission through the circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) technique peaked in
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Density functional theory (DFT) and its extension, time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT), have become fundamental tools for modeling chiral excited states and supporting experimental chiroptical spectroscopies. In this connection, the interest in understanding the asymmetric emission through the circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) technique peaked in the current decade. In the present work, we are computationally faced with an emerging class of luminophores which combines the luminogenic source of the BODIPY unit with the intrinsic chirality of the helicene pendant to obtain a chiral radiative deactivation. In particular, a meso-substituted BODIPY-[6]helicene was deeply examined through a DFT multistep approach to attain an appreciable level of theory for the CPL simulation. Among the multitude of alternatives, TPSSTPSS exchange-correlation functional with 6-311G(d,p) basis set revealed to be the best computational protocol to emulate the CPL spectral profile with regard to peak intensity, band position, and chiral sign for both M and P form.
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Open AccessArticle
Anion Transfer Reactions from Chiral Hypervalent Iodine Macrocycles
by
Mina Dumre Pandey, Tahir Awais, Krishna Pandey, Samsul Arafin, Eli Jones and Kyle N. Plunkett
Organics 2025, 6(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/org6040052 - 20 Nov 2025
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The direct chlorination, bromination and azidation of beta keto esters, 2-acetyl-1-tetralone and methyl 1-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene-2-carboxylate is achieved utilizing anion-coordinated hypervalent iodine benziodazoles derived from hypervalent iodine macrocycles. This reaction, which introduces the halogen, azido or cyano group at the alpha carbon atom of beta
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The direct chlorination, bromination and azidation of beta keto esters, 2-acetyl-1-tetralone and methyl 1-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene-2-carboxylate is achieved utilizing anion-coordinated hypervalent iodine benziodazoles derived from hypervalent iodine macrocycles. This reaction, which introduces the halogen, azido or cyano group at the alpha carbon atom of beta keto esters, is accomplished in chloroform at 60 °C and results in the formation of a chiral center. Depending on the structure of the benziodazole reagent, the reaction can have mild enantioselectivity. The reaction between 2-acetyl-1-tetralone and phenylalanine-derived hypervalent iodine benziodazoles results in the chlorinated product with 26% enantiomeric excess.
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