Catalysis
The broader research area of Professor Tõnis Kanger's group is asymmetric organic synthesis. His work focuses on developing and applying sustainable methods of asymmetric catalysis. Various catalytic methods (organocatalysis, including halogen bond catalysis, metal catalysis, and enzyme catalysis) are used both individually and in combination. Special attention is given to enhancing reaction efficiency by designing and using selective multifunctional catalysts.
New methods are applied in the synthesis of natural compounds and their derivatives, with particular emphasis on the synthesis of oligosaccharides (HMOs) found in human breast milk, which hold significant practical value.
The synthetic research is supported by spectroscopic, crystallographic, and chromatographic experiments, as well as theoretical quantum chemical calculations. A key theme in the research is the application of sustainable and green chemistry principles in asymmetric synthesis.
Tõnis Kanger is a Professor of Organic Synthesis at the Department of Chemistry & Biotechnology in TalTech. His scientific interests include catalytic asymmetric synthesis, atom- and step-efficient synthetic methods, multicomponent and cascade reactions, and, in particular, asymmetric organocatalysis. He is the author of over 100 articles (h-index = 27; cited over 2000 times) and was twice awarded with the National Science Prize of Republic of Estonia in Chemistry & Molecular Biology (2004, 2016).
tonis.kanger@taltech.ee
Researcher ID: H-2462-2015
ORCID: 0000-0001-5339-9682
Phone: +372 620 4371
Fax: +372 620 2828
Murre, A.; Erkman, K.; Kanger, T. Protocol for the preparation of primary amine-containing catalysts on the resin. STAR Protocols, 2024, 5, 1, 102933. DOI link
Murre, A.; Mikli, V.; Erkman, K.; Kanger, T. Primary amines as heterogeneous catalysts in an enantioselective [2,3]-Wittig rearrangement reaction. iScience, 2023 Sep 6; 26 (10):107822. DOI link
Sihtmae, M.; Silm, E.; Kriis, K.; Kahru, A.; Kanger, T. Aminocatalysts are More Environmentally Friendly than Hydrogen-Bonding Catalysts. ChemSusChem, 2022, 15, e202201045. DOI link
Hunt, K. E.; García-Sosa, A. T.; Shalima, T.; Maran, U.; Vilu, R.; Kanger, T. Org. Biomol. Chem., 2022, 20, 4724−4735. DOI link
Kriis, K.; Martõnov, H.; Miller, A.; Erkman, K.; Järving, I.; Kaasik, M.; Kanger, T. Multifunctional Catalysts in the Asymmetric Mannich Reaction of Malononitrile with N-Phosphinoylimines: Coactivation by Halogen Bonding versus Hydrogen Bonding. J. Org. Chem. 2022, 87 (11), 7422−7435. DOI link
Silm, E.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric organocatalytic Michael addition of cyclopentane-1,2-dione to alkylidene oxindole. Beilstein Journal of Organic Chemistry 2022, 18, 167−173. DOI link
Murre, A.; Erkman, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Chemoenzymatic One-Pot Synthesis of α-Hydroxy Half-Esters. ACS Omega 2021, 6, 31, 20686–20698. DOI link
Kimm, M.; Järving, I.; Ošeka, M.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Organocatalytic [2,3]‐Wittig Rearrangement of Cyclohexanone Derivatives. Eur. J. Org. Chem. 2021, 3113–3120. DOI link
Kaasik, M.; Martõnova, J.; Erkman, K,: Metsala, A.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Enantioselective Michael addition to vinyl phosphonates via hydrogen bond-enhanced halogen bond catalysis. Chem. Sci., 2021, 12, 7561-7568. DOI link
Trubitsõn, D.; Martõnova, J.; Kudrjašova, M.; Erkman; K.; Järving, I.; Kanger T. Enantioselective Organocatalytic Michael Addition to Unsaturated Indolyl Ketones. Organic Letters, 2021, 23 (5), 1820−1824. DOI link
Kõllo, M.; Kasari, M.; Kasari, V.; Pehk, T.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Jõers, A.; Kanger, T. Designed whole-cell-catalysis-assisted synthesis of 9,11-secosterols. Beilstein Journal of Organic Chemistry 2021, 17, 581−588. DOI link
Abstract: A method for the synthesis of 9,11-secosteroids starting from the natural corticosteroid cortisol is described. There are two key steps in this approach, combining chemistry and synthetic biology. Stereo- and regioselective hydroxylation at C9 (steroid numbering) is carried out using whole-cell biocatalysis, followed by the chemical cleavage of the C–C bond of the vicinal diol. The two-step method features mild reaction conditions and completely excludes the use of toxic oxidants.
Trubitsõn, D.; Kanger, T. Enantioselective Catalytic Synthesis of N-alkylated Indoles. Symmetry 2020, 12, 1184. DOI link
Kaasik, M.; Kanger, T. Supramolecular Halogen Bonds in Asymmetric Catalysis. Frontiers in Chemistry 2020, 8, 599064. DOI link
Trubitsõn, D.; Martõnova, J.; Erkman, K.; Metsala, A.; Saame, J.; Kõster, K.; Järving, I.; Leito, I.; Kanger, T. Enantioselective N-Alkylation of Nitroindoles under Phase-Transfer Catalysis. Synthesis 2020, 52, 1047−1059. DOI link
Murre, A.; Erkman, K.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Diastereoselective [2,3]-Sigmatropic Rearrangement of N-Allyl Ammonium Ylides. Synthesis 2019, 51, 4183−4197. DOI link
Silm, E.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Organocatalytic Michael Addition–Cyclisation Cascade of Cyclopentane-1,2-dione with Alkylidene Malononitriles. Synthesis 2019, 51, 4198−4204. DOI link
Kimm, M.; Ošeka, M.; Kaabel, S.; Metsala, A.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. [2,3]-Wittig Rearrangement as a Formal Asymmetric Alkylation of α-Branched Ketones. Organic Letters 2019, 21, 13, 4976-4980. DOI link
Kaasik, M.; Metsala, A.; Kaabel, S.; Kriis, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Halo-1,2,3-triazolium Salts as Halogen Bond Donors for the Activation of Imines in Dihydropyridinone Synthesis. Journal of Organic Chemistry 2019, 84, 4294−4303. DOI link
Kaasik, M.; Kaabel, S.; Kriis, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Synthesis of Chiral Triazole-Based Halogen Bond Donors. Synthesis 2019, 51, 2128-2135. DOI link
Peterson, A.; Kaasik, M.; Metsala, A.; Järving, I.; Adamson, J.; Kanger, T. Tunable chiral triazole-based halogen bond donors: assessment of donor strength in solution with nitrogen-containing acceptors. RSC Advances 2019, 9, 11718−11721. DOI link
Reitel, K.; Kriis, K.; Järvin, I.; Kanger, T. Study of the asymmetric organocatalyzed [3+2] annulation of cyclopropenone and β-keto ester. Chemistry of Heterocyclic Compounds 2018, 54, 929−933. DOI link
Trubitsõn, D.; Žari, S.; Kaabel, S.; Kudrjashova, M.; Kriis, K.; Järving, I.; Pehk, T.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Organocatalytic Cascade Synthesis of Tetrahydrofuranyl Spirooxindoles. Synthesis 2018, 50, 314−322. DOI link
Ben Moussa, S.; Lachheb, J.; Gruselle, M.; Maaten, B.; Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Tõnsuaadu, K.; Badraoui, B. Calcium, Barium and Strontium apatites: A new generation of catalysts in the Biginelli reaction. Tetrahedron 2017, 73, 6542−6548. DOI link
Metsala, A.; Žari, S.; Kanger, T. Reaction path scans: Aza-Michael reactions of isatin imines. Computational and Theoretical Chemistry 2017, 1117, 30-40. DOI link
Kaasik, M.; Kaabel, S.; Kriis, K.; Järving, J.; Aav, R.; Rissanen, K.; Kanger, T. Synthesis and Characterisation of Chiral Triazole‐Based Halogen‐Bond Donors: Halogen Bonds in the Solid State and in Solution. Chemistry - A European Journal 2017, 23, 7337−7344. DOI link
Ošeka, M.; Kimm, M.; Järving, I.; Lippur, K.; Kanger, T. Two Catalytic Methods of an Asymmetric Wittig [2,3]-Rearrangement. J. Org. Chem. 2017, 82, 2889-2897. DOI link
Kriis, K.; Melnik, T.; Lips, K.; Juhanson, I.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Synthesis of 2,3,4-Trisubstituted Piperidines. Synthesis 2017, 49, 604-614. DOI link
Metsala, A.; Žari, S.; Kanger, T. Aza-Michael Reactions of Isatin Imines: Deeper Insight and Origin of the Stereoselectivity. ChemCatChem 2016, 8, 2961-2967. DOI link
Ošeka, M.; Kimm, M.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Rissanen, K.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric Organocatalytic Wittig [2,3]-Rearrangement of Oxindoles. Org. Lett. 2016, 18, 1358-1361. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kostomarova, D.; Matkevitš, K.; Laos, M.; Pehk, T.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. 3-Alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones by Negishi cross-coupling of a 3-bromo-1,2-cyclopentanedione silyl enol ether with alkylzinc reagents: An approach to 2-substituted carboxylic acid γ-lactones, homocitric and lycoperdic acids. Tetrahedron 2015, 71, 9313–9320. DOI Link
Preegel, G.; Ilmarinen, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Enantioselective Organocatalytic Michael Addition-Cyclization Cascade of Cyclopentane-1,2-dione with Substituted (E)-2-oxobut-3-enoates. Synthesis 2015, 47, 3805–3812. DOI Link
Lippur, K.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Rissanen, K.; Kanger, T. CaCl2, Bisoxazoline, and Malonate: A Protocol for an Asymmetric Michael Reaction. J. Org. Chem. 2015, 80, 6336-6341. DOI Link
Kaasik, M.; Noole, A.; Reitel, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Organocatalytic conjugate addition of cyclopropylacetaldehyde derivatives to nitro olefins: En route to β- and γ-amino acids. Eur. J. Org. Chem. 2015, 1745-1753. DOI Link
Žari, S.; Metsala, A.; Kudrjashova, M.; Kaabel, S.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric organocatalytic aza-michael reactions of isatin derivatives. Synthesis 2015, 47, 875-886. DOI Link
Kreek, K.; Kriis, K.; Maaten, B.; Uibu, M.; Mere, A.; Kanger, T.; Koel, M. Organic and carbon aerogels containing rare-earth metals: Their properties and application as catalysts. J. Non-Cryst. Solids 2014, 404, 43-48. DOI Link
Maaten, B.; Moussa, J.; Desmarets, C.; Gredin, P.; Beaunier, P.; Kanger, T.; Tõnsuaadu, K.; Villemin, D.; Gruselle, M. Cu-modified hydroxy-apatite as catalyst for Glaser-Hay CC homo-coupling reaction of terminal alkynes. J. Mol. Catal. A 2014, 393, 112-116. DOI Link
Preegel, G.; Noole, A.; Ilmarinen, K.; Järving, I.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Enantioselective Organocatalytic Michael Addition of Cyclopentane-1,2-diones to Nitroolefins. Synthesis 2014, 46, 2595–2600. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Aid, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Sonogashira cross-coupling of 3-bromo-1,2-diones: An access to 3-alkynyl-1,2-diones. Tetrahedron 2014, 70, 5843-5848. DOI Link
Žari, S.; Kudrjashova, M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Remote activation of the nucleophilicity of isatin. Org. Lett. 2014, 16, 1740-1743. DOI Link
Ošeka, M.; Noole, A.; Žari, S.; Öeren, M.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric diastereoselective synthesis of spirocyclopropane derivatives of oxindole. Eur. J. Org. Chem. 2014, 3599-3606. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Malkov, A.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric organocatalytic synthesis of spiro-cyclopropaneoxindoles. Synthesis 2013, 45, 2520-2524. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Ilmarinen, K.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric synthesis of congested spiro-cyclopentaneoxindoles via an organocatalytic cascade reaction. J. Org. Chem. 2013, 78, 8117-8122. DOI Link
Reitel, K.; Lippur, K.; Järving, I.; Kudrjašova, M.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Asymmetric aminocatalytic Michael addition of cyclopropane-containing aldehydes to nitroalkenes. Synthesis 2013, 45, 2679-2683. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Ošeka, M.; Pehk, T.; Öeren, M.; Järving, I.; Elsegood, M.R.J.; Malkov, A.V.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. 3-Chlorooxindoles: Versatile starting materials for asymmetric organocatalytic synthesis of spirooxindoles. Adv. Synth. Catal. 2013, 355, 829-835. DOI Link
Ausmees, K.; Kriis, K.; Pehk, T.; Werner, F.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Diastereoselective multicomponent cascade reaction leading to [3.2.0]-heterobicyclic compounds. J. Org. Chem. 2012, 77, 10680-10687. DOI Link
Lippur, K.; Tiirik, T.; Kudrjashova, M.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Amination of quinolones with morpholine derivatives. Tetrahedron 2012, 68, 9550-9555. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Järving, I.; Werner, F.; Lopp, M.; Malkov, A.; Kanger, T. Organocatalytic asymmetric synthesis of 3-chlorooxindoles bearing adjacent quaternary-tertiary centers. Org. Lett. 2012, 14, 4922-4925. DOI Link
Žari, S.; Kailas, T.; Kudrjashova, M.; Öeren, M.; Järving, I.; Tamm, T.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Organocatalytic asymmetric addition of malonates to unsaturated 1,4-diketones. Beil. J. Org. Chem. 2012, 8, 1452-1457. DOI Link
Reile, I.; Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M. Cyclopentane-1,2-dione bis(tert-butyldimethylsilyl) enol ether in asymmetric organocatalytic Mukaiyama-Michael reactions. Tetrahedron Lett. 2012, 53, 1476-1478. DOI Link
Reinart-Okugbeni, R.; Ausmees, K.; Kriis, K.; Werner, F.; Rinken, A.; Kanger, T. Chemoenzymatic synthesis and evaluation of 3-azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane derivatives as dopaminergic ligands. Eur. J. Med. Chem. 2012, 55, 255-261. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Pehk, T.; Järving, I.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Organocatalytic asymmetric synthesis of trisubstituted pyrrolidines via a cascade reaction. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2012, 23, 188-198. DOI Link
Gruselle, M.; Kanger, T.; Thouvenot, R.; Flambard, A.; Kriis, K.; Mikli, V.; Traksmaa, R.; Maaten, B.; Tõnsuaadu, K. Calcium hydroxyapatites as efficient catalysts for the Michael C-C bond formation. ACS Catalysis 2011, 1, 1729-1733. DOI Link
Ausmees, K.; Selyutina, A.; Kütt, K.; Lippur, K.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M.; Žusinaite, E.; Merits, A.; Kanger, T. Synthesis and biological activity of bimorpholine and its carbanucleosid. Nucleos Nucleot Nucl 2011, 30, 897-907. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Borissova, M.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Enantioselective organocatalytic aza-ene-type domino reaction leading to 1,4-dihydropyridines. J. Org. Chem. 2011, 76, 1538-1545. DOI Link
Kriis, K.; Ausmees, K.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. A novel diastereoselective multicomponent cascade reaction. Org. Lett. 2010, 12, 2230-2233. DOI Link
Laars, M.; Raska, H.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Cyclic amino acid salts as catalysts for the asymmetric Michael reaction. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2010, 21, 562-565. DOI Link
Noole, A.; Lippur, K.; Metsala, A.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Enantioselective Henry reaction catalyzed by Cu(II) salt and bipiperidine. J. Org. Chem. 2010, 75, 1313-1316. DOI Link
Uudsemaa, M.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M.; Tamm, T. pKa calculation for monoprotonated bipiperidine, bimorpholine and their derivatives in H2O and MeCN. Chem. Phys. Lett. 2010, 485, 83-86. DOI Link
Lippur, K.; Elmers, C.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis of 5,5'-disubstituted bimorpholines. Synth. Commun. 2010, 40, 266-281. DOI Link
Laars, M.; Ausmees, K.; Uudsemaa, M.; Tamm, T.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Enantioselective organocatalytic Michael addition of aldehydes to β-nitrostyrenes. J. Org. Chem. 2009, 3772-3775. DOI Link
Uudsemaa, M.; Laars, M.; Kriis, K.; Tamm, T.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T. Influence of protonation upon the conformations of bipiperidine, bimorpholine, and their derivatives. Chem Phys. Lett. 2009, 471, 92-96. DOI Link
Laars, M.; Kriis, K.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Structural constraints for C2-symmetric heterocyclic organocatalysts in asymmetric aldol reactions. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2008, 19, 641-645. DOI Link
Kanger, T.; Kriis, K.; Laars, M.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Bimorpholine-mediated enantioselective intramolecular and intermolecular aldol condensation. J. Org. Chem. 2007, 72, 5168-5173. DOI Link
Kriis, K.; Laars, M.; Lippur, K.; Kanger, T. Bimorpholines as alternative organocatalysts in asymmetric aldol reactions. Chimia 2007, 61, 232-235. DOI Link
Abstract: Asymmetric organocatalytic aldol condensation is discussed on the basis of intramolecular and inter-molecular reactions. In addition to the widely used proline and its derivatives an application of the new type of the organocatalyst – bimorpholines in the above-mentioned reactions is described. The new catalyst has a unique C2-symmetric skeleton with four acceptor sites that makes it stereoselective and efficient. Small changes in the structure of the catalyst lead to a remarkable loss of selectivity.
Sulzer-Mossé, S.; Laars, M.; Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Alexakis, A. Synthesis and use of 3,3′-bimorpholine derivatives in asymmetric Michael addition and intramolecular aldol reaction. Synthesis 2007, 11, 1729-1732. DOI Link
Abstract: The synthesis of 3,3′-bimorpholine and its N-alkyl derivatives is described. These new diamine derivatives were revealed to be efficient organocatalysts for the asymmetric Michael addition of aldehydes to nitroalkenes with excellent enantioselectivity (up to 90% ee). The potential of these organocatalysts was also demonstrated for the highly enantioselective intramolecular aldol reaction affording the Wieland-Miescher ketone with tremendous enantioselectivity (up to 95% ee).
Aav, R.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis of substituted cyclopentanones from 2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]oct-6-en- 3-one. Proc. Est. Acad. Sci. Chem. 2007, 56, 3-13. Direct Link
Abstract: Synthesis of regioisomeric cyclopentanones 3-alkyloxy-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octan-6-one (overall yield up to 34%) and 3-alkyloxy-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octan-7-one (overall yield up to 18%) in four steps, starting from enantiomerically pure (–)-(1S,5R)-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]oct-6-en-3-one is described.
Lippur, K.; Kanger, T.; Kriis, K.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis of (2S,2′S)-bimorpholine N,N′-quaternary salts as chiral phase transfer catalysts. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2007, 18, 137-141. DOI Link
Jõgi, A.; Paju, A.; Pehk, T.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric synthesis of 2-aryl-5-oxotetrahydrofuran-2-carboxylic acids. Synthesis 2006, 3031-3036. DOI Link
Abstract: 3-Aryl-2-hydroxycyclopent-2-en-1-ones, when subjected to asymmetric oxidation, result in enantiomerically enriched 2-aryl-5-oxotetrahydrofuran-2-carboxylic acids. Electron-donating substituents in the para position of the phenyl ring increase the yield and decrease the enantioselectivity of the process.
Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Laars, M.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Enantioselective synthesis of Wieland-Miescher ketone through bimorpholine-catalyzed organocatalytic aldol condensation. Synlett 2006, 1699-1702. DOI Link
Abstract: Novel bimorpholine-derived organocatalysts have been used for highly enantioselective intramolecular aldol reaction affording Wieland-Miescher ketone in high yield and enantioselectivity (up to 92% and 95%, respectively).
Paju, A.; Laos, M.; Jõgi, A.; Päri, M.; Jäälaid, R.; Pehk, T.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric synthesis of 2-alkyl-substituted 2-hydroxyglutaric acid γ-lactones. Tetrahedron Lett. 2006, 47, 4491-4493. DOI Link
Mossé, S.; Laars, M.; Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Alexakis, A. 3,3′-bimorpholine derivatives as a new class of organocatalysts for asymmetric Michael addition. Org. Lett. 2006, 8, 2559-2562. DOI Link
Kanger, T.; Laars, M.; Kriis, K.; Kailas, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Anchimeric assistance in the case of vicinal dimesylate: Formation of enantiomeric or meso-bimorpholine. Synthesis 2006, 1853-1857. DOI Link
Abstract: An anchimeric effect of vicinal dimesylate in the intramolecular nucleophilic substitution by amine is described. One sulfonate group of the dimesylate acts as an internal nucleophile and the other as a leaving group, affording meso-bimorpholine in the intramolecular cyclization. ω,ω′-Dimesylate omits this effect and the target compound is obtained with high ee.
Kanger, T.; Raudla, K.; Aav, R.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis and derivatization of bis-nor Wieland-Miescher ketone. Synthesis 2005, 3147-3151. DOI Link
Abstract: An efficient synthesis of bis-nor Wieland-Miescher ketone and its derivatives starting from commercially available 2-allyl-2-methylcyclopenta-1,3-dione is described.
Aav, R.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Unexpected reactivity of ethyl 2-(diethylphosphono)propionate toward 2,2-disubstituted-1,3-cyclopentanediones. Phosphorus, Sulfur Silicon Relat. Elem. 2005, 180, 1739-1748. DOI Link
Abstract: A Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reagent-ethyl 2-(diethylphosphono)propionate in the reaction with 2,2-disubstituted-1,3-cyclopentanediones, results in 4-oxohexanoic acid ethyl ester derivative up to 90% isolated yield. 31P-13C- and 1H-NMR study of the intermediates of the reaction involving the ethyl 2-(diethylphosphono)propionate was accomplished.
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Eek, M.; Lopp, M. A short enantioselective synthesis of homocitric acid-γ-lactone and 4-hydroxy-homocitric acid-γ-lactones. Tetrahedron 2004, 60, 9081-9084. DOI Link
Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of aromatic ketones by Rh(I)/bimorpholine complexes. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2004, 15, 2687-2691. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Niitsoo, O.; Pehk, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric oxidation of 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones. Part 3: Oxidative ring cleavage of 3-hydroxyethyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones: Synthesis of α-hydroxy-γ-lactone acids and spiro-γ-dilactones. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2003, 14, 2393-2399. DOI Link
Kriis, K.; Kanger, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Lopp, M. C2-symmetric bimorpholines as chiral ligands in the asymmetric hydrogenation of ketones. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2003, 14, 2271-2275. DOI Link
Kanger, T.; Ausmees, K.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. A comparative study of the synthesis of C2-symmetric chiral 2,2′-biaziridinyls. Synlett 2003, 1055-1057. DOI Link
Abstract: Two comparative synthetic routes to new enantiomeric C2-symmetric Boc-protected biaziridinyls from tartaric ester were studied. Simplicity, high enantiomeric purity and high chemical yield of the target compound characterize the proposed methods. Also, unprotected biaziridinyl was synthesized and fully characterized.
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lindmaa, R.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric oxidation of 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones. Part 2: Oxidative ring cleavage of 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones: Synthesis of 2-alkyl-γ-lactone acids. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2003, 14, 1565-1573. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric oxidation of 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones. Part 1: 3-Hydroxylation of 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2002, 13, 2439-2448. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Direct asymmetric α-hydroxylation of 2-hydroxymethyl ketones. Tetrahedron 2002, 58, 7321-7326. DOI Link
Kanger, T.; Kriis, K.; Pehk, T.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric synthesis of novel C2-symmetric bimorpholines. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2002, 13, 857-865. DOI Link
Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric oxidation of 1,2-cyclopentanediones. Tetrahedron Lett. 2000, 41, 6883-6887. DOI Link
Abstract: Cyclic 3-alkyl-1,2-cyclopentanediones undergo a direct asymmetric oxidation with the DET/Ti(OiPr)4/tBuOOH oxidative system, resulting in enantiomeric α-hydroxy compounds and ring-cleaved hydroxylated acids (lactones) up to 95% ee.
Aav, R.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis of the AB-ring of 9,11-secosterols. Synlett 2000, 529-531. DOI Link
Abstract: The first total synthesis of AB-ring system of an antiproliferative and cytotoxic 9,11-secosterol 1 is described. Enantiomerically pure (3S,5S,6S,10S)-3,6-diacetoxy-10-methylbicyclo[4.4.0]decan-9-one 8 (steroidal numeration) was prepared from (S)-Wieland-Miescher ketone.
Alexakis, A.; Aujard, I.; Kanger, T.; Mangeney, P. (R,R)- and (S,S)-N,N'-dimethyl-1,2-diphenylethylene-1,2-diamine. Org. Synth. 1999, 76, 23-34. DOI Link
Rose-Munch, F.; Gagliardini, V.; Perrotey, A.; Tranchier, J.-P.; Rose, E.; Mangeney, P.; Alexakis, A.; Kanger, T.; Vaissermann, J. Two-step synthesis of homochiral monoaminals of tricarbonylphthalaldehydechromium complex. Chem. Commun. 1999, 2061-2062. DOI Link
Abstract: Tricarbonylphthalaldehydechromium complex can be prepared using a ‘one pot’ procedure starting from tricarbonylbenzenechromium: the protection of one aldehyde function by chiral diamines leads to the formation of two diastereoisomers of the monoaminal of the phthlaldehyde complexes, efficient precursors of enantiopure ortho-substituted alkenyl arene complexes.
Kanger, T.; Kriis, K.; Paju, A.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Asymmetric oxidation of cyclobutanones: Modification of the sharpless catalyst. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 1998, 9, 4475-4482. DOI Link
Abstract: Oxidation of prochiral and racemic cyclobutanones with t-BuOOH and Ti–TADDOL-based complexes afforded lactones in up to 44% ee. The enantioselectivity of the reaction clearly depends on the amount of the reagent and the highest enantioselectivities were obtained with stoichiometric amounts of the complex. Modification of the TADDOL structure and use of the mixed complex derived from TADDOL and a tartaric ester led to more reactive but less selective oxidation systems.
Kanger, T.; Niidas, P.; Müürisepp, A.-M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. Synthesis of chiral epoxyalkynes. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 1998, 9, 2499-2508. DOI Link
Abstract: The synthesis of novel chiral propargylic epoxides ((R)-1-t-butyldimethylsilyl-3,4-epoxy-1-butyne, (3S,4S)-3,4-epoxy-1-octyne, (3R,4S)-1-t-butyldimethylsilyl-3,4-epoxy-1-pentyne) has been developed starting from the readily available tartaric acid derivative, (S,S)-(+)-2,3-O-isopropylidene-L-threitol.
Lopp, M.; Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T. Direct asymmetric α-hydroxylation of β-hydroxyketones. Tetrahedron Lett. 1997, 38, 5051-5054. DOI Link
Lopp, M.; Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Pehk, T. Asymmetric Bayer-Villiger oxidation of cyclobutanones. Tetrahedron Lett. 1996, 37, 7583-7586. DOI Link
Kobzar, G.; Mardla, V.; Kanger, R.; Lopp, M.; Lille, U. Comparison of the Anti-Aggregatory activity of enantiomers of a 15-non-stereogenic carbacyclin analogue MIM706. Pharmacol. Toxicol. 1995, 76, 297-298. DOI Link
Alexakis, A.; Kanger, T.; Mangeney, P.; Rose-Munch, F.; Perrotey, A.; Rose, E. Enantioselective ortho-lithiation of benzaldehyde chromiumtricarbonyl complex. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 1995, 6, 2135-2138. DOI link
Alexakis, A.; Kanger, T.; Mangeney, P.; Rose-Munch, F.; Perrotey, A.; Rose, E. Enantioselective ortho-Lithiation of Aminals of benzaldehyde chromiumtricarbonyl complex. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 1995, 6, 47-50. DOI link
Kobzar, G.; Shelkovnikov, S.; Mardla, V.; Savitski, G.; Lopp, M.; Kanger, T.; Lille, U. A 15-nonstereogenic carbocyclic analogue of prostacyclin: Effects on human platelets and uterine artery. J. Lipid Mediat. Cell Sign. 1994, 10, 243-249. Link
Abstract: Platelet-suppressant and vasodilator effects of the (+) enantiomer of 13,14-dihydro-15,16,17,18,19,20-hexanor-14-(1-hydroxycyclohexyl)++ +carbocyclin (MM706), a carbocyclic analogue of prostacyclin with the 15-hydroxyl group located at a symmetrically substituted carbon atom were studied on human platelets and isolated uterine artery. In washed platelets it inhibits platelet aggregation with an IC50 value of 77 nM as compared to IC50 = 1.3 nM for PGI2. In the presence of indomethacin its potency like that of PGI2 decreases about 2-fold. Also, MM706 like PGI2 fails to inhibit the norepinephrine (NE)-stimulated contractions of isolated human uterine artery in the absence of indomethacin. Pretreatment of the artery with indomethacin (3 microM) makes it sensitive to both MM706 and PGI2, the EC50 values being 99 and 3.1 nM, respectively. The results show that MM706 is an effective inhibitor of platelet aggregation and NE-stimulated contractions of the indomethacin-treated uterine artery.
Kanger, T.; Liiv, M.; Pehk, T.; Lopp, M. A highly stereoselective synthesis of a new propargylic epoxide: (3R,4S)-1-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-3,4-epoxy-1-pentyne. Synthesis 1993, 91-93. DOI Link
Abstract: The synthesis of a novel enantiopure propargylic epoxide, (3R, 4S)-1-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-3,4-epoxy-1-pentyne (9), from a readily available tartaric acid derivative, (4R,5S)-5-{[(tert-butyldimethyl-silyl)oxy]methyl}-2,2-dimethyl-1, 3-dioxalane-4-carbaldehyde (1), is described.
Kanger, T.; Lopp, M.; Muraus, A.; Lohmus, M.; Kobzar, G.; Pehk, T.; Lille, U. Synthesis of a novel, optically active 15-nonstereogenic carbaprostacyclin. Synthesis 1992, 925-927. DOI Link
Abstract: Novel, optically active carbacyclin analogues (+)-1 and (-)-1 with an achiral ω-chain were synthesized from homochiral bromohydrins 3a and 4a, respectively.
Lopp, M.; Kanger, T.; Miiraus, A.; Pehka, T.; Lille, Ü. Synthesis of a novel four-carbon chiron - (R)-1-t-butyldimethylsilyl-3,4-epoxy-but-1-yne. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 1991, 2, 943-944. DOI Link
Abstract: A simple and efficient synthesis of the novel chiron-(R)-1-Tl3DMS-3,4-epoxybut-1-yne has been developed starting from a derivative of (R,R)-(+)-tartaric acid. A new stereoselective bromination reaction of an O-silyl ether with BBr3 is also described.
Kanger, T.; Lopp.; Lille, Ü. Reactions of oxiranes. 2. Effect of protective groups on regioselectivity of oxirane opening in 2,3-epoxybicyclo[3.2.0]heptan-6-ones by lithium alkynide in the presence of boron-trifluoride. Zh. Org. Khim. 1991, 27, 1693-1700.
Kanger, T.; Kabat, M, Viha, E.; Lopp, M.; Lille, Ü. Optically-active synthons for synthesis of prostanoids. 1. Separation of 2-exo-bromine-3-endo-hydroxybicyclo[3.2.0]heptan-6-one enantiomers. Zh. Org. Khim. 1990, 26, 1611-1714.
Lopp, M.; Paju, A.; Kanger, T.; Välimäe, T.; Lille, Ü. Alkynylation of ethylene ketal of 1-chloro-4-bromo-1E-buten-3-one - synthesis of enyne and diene fragments of leukotriene and pheromones. Zh. Org. Khim. 1989, 25, 869-870.
Kanger, T.; Lopp, M.; Lille, Ü. Reactions of Oxiranes. 1. Role of Boron-Trifluoride in alkynation of bicyclic oxiranes. Zh. Org. Khim. 1988, 24, 2543-2546.
Pihl, L.; Kanger, T.; Talvik, A. Kinetic study of ionization of nitroalkanes in mixed solvents. 9. Phenylnitromethane and phenylnitromethane-d2 in aqueous dimethylsulfoxide and aqeous dimethylformamide. Org. React. 1984, 21, 436-440.
Ongoing projects
PRG1031 "Development and application of sustainable methods of asymmetric synthesis (1.01.2021−31.12.2025)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology , School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology
Completed projects
SLTTI16143T "Center of Excellence in Molecular Cell Engineering (TK143) (1.01.2016−1.03.2023)", Tanel Tenson, University of Tartu, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Technology
PRG657 "Development and application of sustainable methods of asymmetric synthesis (1.01.2020−31.12.2020)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology
PUT1468 "Halogen bonding: from crystals to solution (1.01.2017−31.12.2019)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology
IUT19-32 "Directed asymmetric catalytic synthesis: an integrated approach (1.01.2014−31.12.2019)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology
TAR8103 "Center of Excellence in Chemical Biology (28.03.2008−30.11.2015)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry
RLOTITIPP "Center of Execellence in Chemical Biology (7.07.2008−31.08.2015)", Tanel Tenson, University of Tartu, Faculty of Science and Technology (old), Institute of Technology
VA433 "Design of heterogeneous metal catalysts supported on apatite (1.07.2009−30.06.2014)", Kaia Tõnsuaadu, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Materials Technology, Laboratory of Inorganic Materials
ETF8289 "Efficiency in Organocatalysis (1.01.2010−31.12.2013)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science
SF0140060s12 "Methods and applications of catalytic asymmetric synthesis and stereochemical analysis (1.01.2012−31.12.2013)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science
SF0142725s06 "New strategies and methods of asymmetric synthesis (1.01.2006−31.12.2011)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology , Faculty of Science
ETF6662 "Chiral diamines in organocatalytic and metal-mediated asymmetric reactions (1.01.2006−31.12.2009)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science
590L "Anticancer sacharides and nucleosides analogs (1.09.2005−30.06.2009)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry
BF42 "Balticum Organicum Syntheticum 2006 (1.05.2005−1.10.2006)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry
G4976 "Heterocyclic chiral auxiliaries and catalyst ligands with C2-symmetry: synthesis and applications (1.01.2002−31.12.2005)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry
SF0351761s01 "New selective methods of asymmetric synthesis and their application to bioactive compounds synthesis (1.01.2001−31.12.2005)", Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science
G3164 "Chiral metal complexes in asymmetric synthesis (1.01.1998−31.12.2001)", Tõnis Kanger, Tallinn University of Technology, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry
Dr. Kadri Kriis
senior researcher
Dr. Andrus Metsala
senior researcher
Dr. Kristin Erkman
senior researcher
Kaarel Hunt
PhD student
Harry Martõnov
PhD student/junior researcher
Annette Miller
PhD student/junior researcher
Kerli Tali
PhD student/junior researcher
PhD students
Aleksandra Murre, PhD 2023
Estelle Silm, PhD 2022
Dmitri Trubitsõn, PhD 2021
Mariliis Kimm, PhD 2021
Mikk Kaasik, PhD 2020
Kärt Reitel, PhD 2019
Maksim Ošeka, PhD 2017
Sergei Žari, PhD 2015
Artur Noole, PhD 2014
Kerti Ausmees, PhD 2013
Marju Laars, PhD 2010
Riina Aav, PhD 2005
MSc students
Maria Volokhova, MSc 2018
Ilona Juhanson, MSc 2017
Kristiina Lips, MSc 2016
Triin Melnik, MSc 2015
Birgit Maaten, MSc 2014
Anita Plado, MSc 2013
BSc students
Joel Pärnamets, BSc 2024
Karl Buntsev, BSc 2024
Allan Raudsepp, BSc 2023
Trine Kasemägi, BSc 2019
Mari-Liis Ludvig, BSc 2017
Aleksei Gvozdev, BSc 2015
Maarja Orle, BSc 2014
Kristel Jaiu, BSc 2013
Ahto Luuri, BSc 2012
Tõnis Tiirik, BSc 2012
Kristel Kütt, BSc 2011
Cindy Elmers, BSc 2009
Vjatšeslav Šuvalov, BSc 2008
Visiting students
2019 Annette Miller (Regensburg Universität, Germany)
2017 Raminton Gnanagurunathan (University Pierre et Marie Curie, France)
2016 Linda Thaï (University Pierre et Marie Curie, France)
2013 Tobias Peter Michael Glesner (Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany)
2012 Benjamin Schröder (Georg-August University Göttingen, Germany)
2011 Kadi Liis Saar (University of Cambridge, UK)
2009 Jean-Pierre Charles (Institut Universitaire de Technologie de Béthune, France)
2006 Céline Gregorski (Institut Universitaire de Technologie de Béthune, France)
