Huwyler, N.; Carreira, E. M. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 13066-13069.

Over 500 halogenated terpenes, cyclic ethers, and acetogenides come from red algae of the genus Laurencia. It has been suggested that in some cases, these molecules may serve as chemical defence agents. Three novel chlorinated sesquiterpenes (named gomerones A-C) were isolated and structurally identified by a Spanish research group in the Canary Islands in 2008. Due to the unique skeleton and unexplored biological activity of these molecules, Huwyler and Carreira identified them as potential targets for complete synthesis. In 2012, the group reported the complete synthesis of gomerone C, which relies on a key Conia-ene reaction, a Diels-Alder reaction, and the use of Schwesinger’s base.

"Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and the rest of the gang invite you to join SSG 1 in our mission to understand the complex syntheis of gomerone C. So break out those Nintendo 64’s and settle in for some video game classics featuring Tetris, Super Smash Bros, Mario Party, Mario Kart, Super Mario 64, Mario Tennis, Mario Superstar Baseball, and Yoshi’s Island."

Renata, H.; Zhou, Q.; Baran, P. S. Science 2013, 339, 59-63.

Here Renata et al. report on a scalable route to the polyhydroxylated steroid ouabagenin. They take an unusual approach to the age-old practice of steroid semisynthesis. The use of both stereochemical and redox relays resulted in an efficient yield of more than 500 mg of a key precursor of ouabagenin and of the product itself. Innovative methods for carbon-hydrogen and carbon-carbon bond activation as well as carbon-oxygen homolysis were discovered during the course of this synthesis. Considering the value of cardenolides in the treatment of congestive heart failure and the ease of creating of ouabagenin analogs from a key intermediate, this chemistry has the potential to have significant medical relevance.

"Quentin Tarantino, one of the most influential directors of his generation, has made a number of memorable films. These movies have not only been humorous, but also have a good deal of depth. In the same vein, the students of SSG 3 have used the style and tools from some of those films in helping to understand some of the reactions in this article."

Adams, G. L.; Carroll, P. J.; Smith, A. B., III J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2012, 134, 4037−4040.

The akuammiline family of alkaloids contains several bioactive members, several of which are implicated in the treatment of cancer and diabetes. Here, Adams, Carroll and Smith present the total synthesis of (+)-scholarisine A, a member of the akuammiline family with an architecturally intricate cage-like scaffold. The researchers use several interesting techniques, including several novel cyclizations to achieve the unique structure. The artificial production of this molecule opens up the possibility of the synthesizing other members of the family of molecules.

"Whenever the world is in trouble, who do we call first? The Avengers, of course! Join the Avengers in performing important steps in the syntehsis of (+)-scholarisine A, an important compound in the akuammiline family. Devising a way to artificial make this compound can open up new doors in making related compounds, including ones important in treating diabetes and cancer. Join the Avengers, with special appearances by honorary members Wolverine and Spiderman, and even some help from Loki!"

Tanino, K.; Takahashi, M.; Tomata, Y.; Tokura, H.; Uehara, T.; Narabu, T.; Miyashita, M. Nature Chem. 2011, 3, 484-488.

In 1994, maoecrystal V was isolated from Isodon eriocalyx Hara, which has been used in herbal medicine for some time. Then, in 2004, a single crystal of maoecrystal V was obtained, allowing further analysis to reveal the structure of this compelling molecule. This paper, published in 2012, offers a scheme for the total synthesis of racemic maoecrystal V. Some of the keys steps that the investigators have accomplished include an intramolecular Diels-Alder cyclization reaction, which is used to form the core system of the molecule from the simple starting materials, and the intramolecular delivery of a hydrogen to the hindered beta-face of the ring system.

"Most children idolize the heroes, princesses, and good guys of their favorite movies, but SSG 2 decided to take a look at some classic Disney movies from another angle... Join SSG 2 and the Disney Villains as they learn about the synthesis of maoecrystal V! "

Bian, M.; Wang, Z.; Xiong, X.; Sun, Y.; Matera, C.; Nicolaou, K. C.; Li, A. J. Am. Chem. Soc 2012, 134, 8078-8081.

""