Design of new methods for the synthesis of alpha amino esters

Abstract

Amino acids are an important class of molecules that have applications in a wide variety of research areas. In the realm of biology, α-amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins. Apart from this, they also act as neurotransmitters, signaling molecules, and antibiotics. Overall, these compounds constitute the second largest component of human muscles, tissues, and cells. One of the important roles of proteins is the catalysis of biochemical reactions. These are accomplished by enzymes, a subset of proteins. Chemists have attempted to mimic these catalysts in the laboratory.