Research
Radical chemistry mediated by metalloenzymes
【Abstract】
Radical enzymes are capable of achieving diverse chemical transformations by generating highly reactive radical species. However, due to the use of unstable reactive species, particularly those sensitive to oxygen, studying these reactions is more challenging compared to typical enzyme reactions, and this has deterred many researchers. In our group, we have overcome this challenge by developing an experimental environment devoid of oxygen and independently establishing methods for preparing active radical enzymes, enabling us to conduct precise functional analysis.
We focus particularly on radical reactions that contribute to the structural diversification of natural products. Our research aims to explore the radical chemistry hidden within natural product biosynthesis and to advance this field. Furthermore, by elucidating the mechanisms through which enzymes control radical species, we are expanding our work towards the functional modification and application of radical enzymes, with the goal of creating novel molecules.
【Keywords】
Radical reaction, Radical SAM enzyme
【Skills learned】
Mechanistic study of enzyme, Handling of anaerobic enzyme
【Publications】
Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2020, 59, 237-241.