Synthesis of single-enantiomer bioactive molecules: a brief overview.

ABSTRACT

Chiral-center enantiomers have been shown to differ significantly in biological activity, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and toxicity. New developments in the stereoselective organic synthesis have enriched the vast literature of synthetic methodologies applicable to access natural products as well as bioactive molecules. These compounds also include new drugs, drug candidates and reagents used to explore biological processes. The article reviews the synthesis of optically pure drugs, biologically active intermediates and amino alcohols by using different methods.