Organic synthesis is the underlying theme of all our research programs.
Much effort is directed toward the total synthesis of natural products,
and the Kelly group has synthesized approximately fifty carbocyclic
and heterocyclic natural products over the years. Another focus
of our work is the design and synthesis of non natural molecules
that exhibit function. These molecules include receptors, templates,
catalysts and, most recently, molecular devices (motors, brakes,
etc.).
Representative Key Publications:
T.R. Kelly, H. De Silva and R.A. Silva, "Unidirectional rotary
motion in a molecular system," Nature, 1999,
400, 150-152.
T. R. Kelly, E. L. Elliott, R. Lebedev and J. Pagalday, “Synthesis
of the Pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazine Family of Natural Products:
Nostocine A, Fluviol A, and Pseudoiodinine.” J. Am. Chem.
Soc. 2006 128, 5646-5647.
T. R. Kelly, X. Cai, F. Damkaci, S. B. Panicker, B. Tu, S. M.
Bushell, I. Cornella, M. J. Piggott, R. Salives, M. Cavero, Y.
Zhao, and S. Jasmin, "Progress toward a Rationally Designed,
Chemically Powered Rotary Molecular Motor," J. Am. Chem.
Soc., 2007, 129, 376-386.