Themed collection 2025 Chemical Science Perspective & Review Collection

33 items
Open Access Perspective

Unifying principles for the design and evaluation of natural product-inspired compound collections

A description and general guidelines of how strategies for synthesis of natural product-inspired and -derived compound libraries can be combined for a specific project goal.

Graphical abstract: Unifying principles for the design and evaluation of natural product-inspired compound collections
Open Access Perspective

A critical appraisal of advances in integrated CO2 capture and electrochemical conversion

This perspective critiques advancements in integrated CO2 capture and electrochemical conversion, contrasting emerging methods like eRCC via amine or (bi)carbonate pathways and direct ACC with traditional sequential capture and conversion strategies.

Graphical abstract: A critical appraisal of advances in integrated CO2 capture and electrochemical conversion
Open Access Perspective

The influential IPr: 25 years after its discovery

25 Years after the discovery of the most influential NHC ligand, we revisit and highlight studies involving IPr that have shaped the field of NHC-transition metal catalysis.

Graphical abstract: The influential IPr: 25 years after its discovery
Open Access Perspective

Cyclopentadienyl cations

This perspective covers the 99 years of work towards the isolation of a cyclopentadienyl cation, from observation of fleeting compounds to the 2024 X-ray crystal structure of a room temperature stable Cp+ cation.

Graphical abstract: Cyclopentadienyl cations
Open Access Perspective

A perspective on field-effect in energy and environmental catalysis

Gaining insights into the origins and roles of the field-effect will facilitate better applications in energy and environmental catalysis.

Graphical abstract: A perspective on field-effect in energy and environmental catalysis
From the themed collection: 2025 Chemical Science HOT Article Collection
Open Access Perspective

Stereoselective transition metal-catalyzed [(2+2)+1] and [(2+2)+2] carbocyclization reactions using 1,6-enynes with 1,1-disubstituted olefins: construction of quaternary centers

The development of transition metal-catalyzed [(2+2)+1] and [(2+2)+2] carbocyclization reactions of 1,6-enynes bearing 1,1-disubstituted olefins is discussed, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for expanding this powerful transformation.

Graphical abstract: Stereoselective transition metal-catalyzed [(2+2)+1] and [(2+2)+2] carbocyclization reactions using 1,6-enynes with 1,1-disubstituted olefins: construction of quaternary centers
Open Access Perspective

Unconventional aspects in metal-embedded laser-induced graphene

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) has gained significant attention, with over 170 publications in 2023 alone.

Graphical abstract: Unconventional aspects in metal-embedded laser-induced graphene
Open Access Perspective

Unravelling complex mechanisms in materials processes with cryogenic electron microscopy

Cryo-electron microscopy plays a pivotal role in materials science by revealing nanoscale structures. This Perspective discusses innovations in experimental design that link structural insights to mechanistic understanding in materials science.

Graphical abstract: Unravelling complex mechanisms in materials processes with cryogenic electron microscopy
Open Access Perspective

Beyond chemical structures: lessons and guiding principles for the next generation of molecular databases

This perspective reviews both materials and molecular data resources and establishes seven guiding principles termed QUANTUM to advance molecular databases toward robust, unified platforms for the research community.

Graphical abstract: Beyond chemical structures: lessons and guiding principles for the next generation of molecular databases
Open Access Perspective

Best-of-both-worlds computational approaches to difficult-to-model dissociation reactions on metal surfaces

To achieve chemical accuracy methods for dissociative chemisorption on metals must use adjustable hybrid density functionals fitted to barriers computed with first principles methods, and dynamics methods accurately describing non-adiabatic effects.

Graphical abstract: Best-of-both-worlds computational approaches to difficult-to-model dissociation reactions on metal surfaces
Open Access Perspective

Semiclassical description of nuclear quantum effects in solvated and condensed phase molecular systems

In this perspective we demonstrate the suitability of semiclassical initial value representation methods to investigate the vibrational spectroscopy and kinetics of solvated and condensed phase molecular systems.

Graphical abstract: Semiclassical description of nuclear quantum effects in solvated and condensed phase molecular systems
Open Access Review Article

Natural biomolecules for cell-interface engineering

In this review, we summarize and overview the development of studies of natural biomolecules that have been used in cell-biointerface engineering. The current prospects and challenges in this area are also presented, along with potential solutions.

Graphical abstract: Natural biomolecules for cell-interface engineering
Open Access Review Article

Recent advances in synthesis and application of Magnéli phase titanium oxides for energy storage and environmental remediation

Review covering the formation, properties and applications of Magnéli phase titanium suboxides (TinO2n−1, 4 ≤ n ≤ 9) in energy storage and environmental remediation.

Graphical abstract: Recent advances in synthesis and application of Magnéli phase titanium oxides for energy storage and environmental remediation
Open Access Review Article

Effects of oxygen vacancies on hydrogenation efficiency by spillover in catalysts

The hydrogenation efficiency by spillover in catalysts affected by oxygen vacancy through hydrogen dissociation, hydrogen spillover, and hydrogenation processes is presented. This review summarize insights for developing high efficiency catalysts.

Graphical abstract: Effects of oxygen vacancies on hydrogenation efficiency by spillover in catalysts
Open Access Review Article

A review of large language models and autonomous agents in chemistry

This review examines the roles of large language models (LLMs) and autonomous agents in chemistry, exploring advancements in molecule design, property prediction, and synthesis automation.

Graphical abstract: A review of large language models and autonomous agents in chemistry
Open Access Review Article

Connecting the complexity of stereoselective synthesis to the evolution of predictive tools

This review provides an overview of predictive tools in asymmetric synthesis. The evolution of methods from simple qualitative pictures to complicated quantitative approaches is connected with the increased complexity of stereoselective synthesis.

Graphical abstract: Connecting the complexity of stereoselective synthesis to the evolution of predictive tools
Open Access Review Article

Unveiling the photophysical mechanistic mysteries of tetrazine-functionalized fluorogenic labels

This review highlights the mechanisms underlying the unique fluorogenic properties of tetrazine-functionalized labels and proposes new strategies to enhance fluorogenicity in the near-infrared region.

Graphical abstract: Unveiling the photophysical mechanistic mysteries of tetrazine-functionalized fluorogenic labels
Open Access Review Article

Advanced fabrication techniques for polymer–metal nanocomposite films: state-of-the-art innovations in energy and electronic applications

Fabrication techniques for polymer–metal composite films in energy and electronic applications: a comprehensive review.

Graphical abstract: Advanced fabrication techniques for polymer–metal nanocomposite films: state-of-the-art innovations in energy and electronic applications
Open Access Review Article

Phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes in the marine environment: current status and future trends

This review delves into the application of phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) in underwater optical communication and marine fishery, exploring the development strategies of phosphors tailored for the marine environment.

Graphical abstract: Phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes in the marine environment: current status and future trends
Open Access Review Article

Multi-target-directed therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease: controlling amyloid-β aggregation, metal ion homeostasis, and enzyme inhibition

This review highlights the potential of multi-target-directed strategies that address amyloid-β aggregation, metal ion dyshomeostasis, and enzyme dysfunction, offering a comprehensive and effective approach to treating Alzheimer's disease.

Graphical abstract: Multi-target-directed therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease: controlling amyloid-β aggregation, metal ion homeostasis, and enzyme inhibition
Open Access Review Article

Recent advances and perspectives in synthetic applications of silylboronates as silyl radical precursors

This review summarizes the recent advances in synthetic applications of silylboronates as silyl radical precursors, discusses the advantages and limitations of each method, and illustrates the synthetic chances still open for further exploration.

Graphical abstract: Recent advances and perspectives in synthetic applications of silylboronates as silyl radical precursors
Open Access Review Article

Opportunities and challenges of lead-free metal halide perovskites for luminescence

In this review, the preparation methods of LFMHPs are analyzed and discussed. The strategies for improving the performance of white LEDs based on LFMHPs are also demonstrated. Finally, their future challenges and perspectives are explored.

Graphical abstract: Opportunities and challenges of lead-free metal halide perovskites for luminescence
Open Access Review Article

Chemical modulation and defect engineering in high-performance GeTe-based thermoelectrics

The crystal structure, chemical bonding characteristics, band structure, and phonon dynamics of GeTe are revealed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that contribute to its exceptional performance.

Graphical abstract: Chemical modulation and defect engineering in high-performance GeTe-based thermoelectrics
Open Access Review Article

Oriented catalysis through chaos: high-entropy spinels in heterogeneous reactions

This review provides an overview of the advances in high entropy spinel oxides in diverse catalytic reactions and highlights the intrinsic structure–property–performance relationships.

Graphical abstract: Oriented catalysis through chaos: high-entropy spinels in heterogeneous reactions
Open Access Review Article

Enhancing electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution via engineering unsaturated electronic structures in MoS2

Focusing on the efficient electronic structures in MoS2. This review critically examines the origins of unsaturated electronic structures, strategies for their construction, and future directions for advancing this promising field.

Graphical abstract: Enhancing electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution via engineering unsaturated electronic structures in MoS2
Open Access Review Article

A dual experimental–theoretical perspective on ESPT photoacids and their challenges ahead

50 years after Th. Förster, 5 years after D. Huppert and M. Eigen: proton transfer as one of the best studied chemical reactions is still under debate and paves the way for new developments in physical and theoretical chemistry.

Graphical abstract: A dual experimental–theoretical perspective on ESPT photoacids and their challenges ahead
Open Access Review Article

Valorization systems based on electrocatalytic nitrate/nitrite conversion for energy supply and valuable product synthesis

Recent progress of valorization systems based on NOx conversion, including waste treatment systems, novel electrolytic systems, and energy conversion and storage systems, is reviewed, and the challenges and future prospects are outlined.

Graphical abstract: Valorization systems based on electrocatalytic nitrate/nitrite conversion for energy supply and valuable product synthesis
Open Access Review Article

Structure–reactivity relationships in CO2 hydrogenation to C2+ chemicals on Fe-based catalysts

This review critically discusses recent in situ and operando studies on Fe-based catalysts in CO2 hydrogenation, in particular focusing on the effect of composition, promoters, support and particle size.

Graphical abstract: Structure–reactivity relationships in CO2 hydrogenation to C2+ chemicals on Fe-based catalysts
Open Access Review Article

Nickel model complexes to mimic carbon monoxide dehydrogenase reactions

Nickel model complexes inspired by CODH active sites offer crucial insights into CO2/CO interconversion mechanisms, guiding the development of efficient and selective synthetic catalysts for CO2 conversion.

Graphical abstract: Nickel model complexes to mimic carbon monoxide dehydrogenase reactions
Open Access Review Article

Photocatalytic regioselective C–H bond functionalizations in arenes

The direct functionalization of C–H bonds has revolutionized the field of synthetic organic chemistry by enabling efficient and atom-economical modification of arenes by avoiding prefunctionalization.

Graphical abstract: Photocatalytic regioselective C–H bond functionalizations in arenes
Open Access Review Article

The challenges and strategies towards high-performance anode-free post-lithium metal batteries

In this work, the critical challenges, strategies and advances towards high-performance anode-free metal batteries, including Na, K and Zn batteries, are reviewed, and the prospects for this field are also provided.

Graphical abstract: The challenges and strategies towards high-performance anode-free post-lithium metal batteries
Open Access Review Article

Magic methylation with methyl-containing peroxides

Methyl groups are abundant in pharmaceuticals, and their installation has garnered significant attention. This review summarises advancements in the use of methyl-containing peroxides as reagents for a variety of methylation reactions.

Graphical abstract: Magic methylation with methyl-containing peroxides
Open Access Review Article

Potential pathways for CO2 utilization in sustainable aviation fuel synthesis

The development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) is a must for the decarbonization of the aviation industry.

Graphical abstract: Potential pathways for CO2 utilization in sustainable aviation fuel synthesis
33 items

About this collection

This on-going web collection showcases all of the Perspective and Review articles published in Chemical Science in 2025.

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