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The Secret of Biosynthesis: How does nature use enzymes to create the miracle of Texor?
In the field of medical chemistry, the full synthesis process of Paclitaxel has attracted widespread attention.This important anti-cancer drug was initially extracted from the rare Pacific yew tree (Taxus brevifolia), however, due to the scarcity of its source of material, this makes the texo relatively expensive.Therefore, scientists focus on synthesis of this compound, which is not only commercially significant, but also helps develop potentially more efficient derivatives in the future.
The molecular structure of texol includes a four-ring core called baccatin III, and an amide side chain, which together form its anti-tumor properties.
Research Process
Texor's development journey spans decades, and since its anti-tumor activity was first discovered in 1963, researchers have begun to explore the compound and its potential applications.In 1971, scientists completed the structural identification of Texo.The important overall synthesis record began in 1982, when Professor Robert A. Holton of Florida State University began a long-term research project until he successfully completed the synthesis in 1994.
The key to the entire process is to synthesize baccartin molecules and then add side chains in the final stage. This strategy has successfully promoted the follow-up and development of multiple research teams.
Synthetic Pathways and Competition
In the 1990s, the full synthesis of Texo became a hot topic for multiple research groups to compete for research.By 1992, about 30 research teams had participated, and the total total synthetic cases have been reported and more than 11 have been reported.The competition between the Holden group and the Nicolaou group, known as the "photo-like ending", was published almost simultaneously in their respective research progress.
Whether it is linear synthesis or polymer synthesis, their common feature is that they all use the synthesis of bacactine, followed by addition of amide side chains for modification.
Semi-synthesis and commercialization
In addition to full synthesis, the semi-synthesis process of Texo is also of commercial value, especially the process led by Bristol-Myers Squibb, which is based on 10- extracted from European yew trees Deacetylbacactine III was modified.This process is mainly carried out through the tail addition reaction of its hydroxyl group.
By changing the organic substituents of the tail amide group, scientists were able to create a variety of new derivatives that had similar activity to Texor but had more potential in structure.
The Mysteries of Biosynthesis
The biosynthesis pathway of texol involves about 20 steps of enzymatic reaction.Although this synthesis path cannot be fully revealed at present, the known links are completely different from the traditional synthesis pathway.The starting substance for biosynthesis is geranylgeranyl diphosphate, which already contains all the carbon atoms needed to synthesise texo.
The synthesis process in nature is far superior to the synthesis strategies in the activation ability of stereochemical control and oxygen substitution, which is why scientists continue to explore biosynthesis paths.
Future research
At present, research on texadiene synthesis is still underway, and scientists are exploring the synthesis of intermediates related to texadiene, such as Taxadiene and Taxadiene.In the synthesis of these intermediates, new compounds and their potential medical applications may emerge.
Texor’s story is not only a journey of exploring chemical synthesis, but also a way to understand how to inspire innovation from nature.
Faced with future challenges, we can't help but ask, with the advancement of biosynthetic technology, what other undiscovered medical miracles can nature bring to mankind?
