Bioinspired organic chemistry

Abstract

Bioinspired research published in 2006 has seen even greater overlap between chemistry, biology and the material sciences. In particular, research in areas such as nanoparticles and single wall nanotubes is becoming increasingly relevant to those researchers working at the interface between organic and biological chemistry. Although this review does not address every report of important research in biomaterials or the interaction of bioinspired molecules with materials, the occasional highlight is described; in some cases initial work was highlighted in last year’s review.¹ Much like last year, this report categorises research according to the biomolecule from which it draws inspiration, although the addition of a section on prebiotic chemistry and chirality transfer reflects the volume of important research produced in this area in 2006. Highlights in this review include: molecular machines were shown to operate at a macroscopic level for the first time; increased insight into the mechanism of asymmetric amplification in amino acid catalysis; and further advances in understanding and replicating biomembrane behaviour.