Asymmetric Chemistry and Sugar Synthesis Professor David
MacMillan Professor of Chemistry, California Institute of
Technology The chemistry of life relies heavily on special
molecules that are ideally suited for their various roles. Part
of this design often involves an asymmetric design that enables
their activity. However, this asymmetry poses a problem for
chemists interested in replicating these biologically important
molecules. Joining us today to discuss the synthesis of natural
compounds is Prof. David MacMillan. Prof. MacMillan is a
professor of chemistry at the California Institute of
Technology, where his interests include new reaction design,
enantioselective catalysis, and natural product synthesis. Prof.
David MacMillan (DM) joins Charles Lee (CL) to discuss
asymmetric catalysis and the synthesis of carbohydrates from
simple starting materials. CL: Prof. MacMillan, thank you for
joining us today. DM: Thank you for having me. CL: It’s
certainly our pleasure. It looks like you are doing some very f