Researchers at St. Petersburg State University developed new bioactive molecules using a "gold" polymer catalyst.

The results of the study have been published in the scientific journal of the first quartile, Advances Synthesis & Catalysis.

For a long time, gold was considered an inert metal in chemistry. This means it did not exhibit chemical activity and did not react with most substances under normal conditions. Chemists referred to gold as a noble metal due to its resistance to corrosion and low reactivity.

However, in recent decades, the perception of gold in the scientific community has changed dramatically. It is undergoing a true renaissance as a catalyst – a substance that accelerates chemical reactions. Researchers have discovered that under certain conditions, especially in the form of nanoparticles or complex compounds, gold can be an extremely effective catalyst capable of speeding up complex chemical transformations.

Chemists from Saint Petersburg State University utilized a gold catalyst to combine two simple molecules, resulting in complex structures that show promise for the development of new pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. In particular, they developed a method for synthesizing functionalized 2-aminoindoles — molecules that can serve as the basis for new antiviral and cytotoxic drugs. They can also be used in the synthesis of fungicides and insecticides — substances that help combat fungal diseases in plants and eliminate insects.

According to the study's author, Alexey Dubovtsev, a senior researcher at the Department of Physical Organic Chemistry at SPbSU, the most important aspect of the research is the use of the "gold" catalyst attached to a polymer.

“It’s like dressing a superhero in a reliable and multifunctional suit: the catalyst on the polymer can be easily filtered out after the reaction — just as the superhero can quickly leave the scene; it can be reused again and again, similar to how the superhero returns for new feats. Moreover, this type of catalyst produces less waste and pollution, protecting the environment like a superhero. It is always ready for action and is well-suited for continuous processes,” explained Alexey Dubovtsev.

Researchers at SPbSU employed a gold complex attached to a polystyrene polymer. The resulting "gold" polymer was easily separated from the reaction mixture and successfully reused. Only one percent of the catalyst was required for the reaction, making the process economically viable and much more environmentally friendly. It is noteworthy that the reaction took place at low temperatures, further emphasizing the efficiency and eco-friendliness of the method.

The study conducted by the Petersburg scientists demonstrates how innovative approaches in catalysis can transform inert gold into a true superhero of chemistry, capable of performing wonders at the molecular level. Thanks to this discovery, gold could become a key element in creating new materials and drugs that will improve our lives.

As the researchers point out, the development of new catalytic systems is of great importance for the advancement of the domestic polymer industry and for ensuring the country's technological independence in this critically important field. The creation of effective catalysts paves the way for the production of innovative polymer materials with beneficial properties, which could revolutionize many industrial sectors — from automotive to medicine.

The research was conducted as part of a project supported by a grant from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia.