Preface

In the vast landscape of organic chemistry, the pursuit of novel molecules and functional groups has been a driving force behind groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements. Among these, glycals (unsaturated sugars) and their derivatives stand as remarkable entities, captivating the interest of chemists across diverse fields. These cyclic enolic ethers are recognized as versatile chiral building blocks and are employed as starting materials for the total synthesis of various biologically active molecules. They have been extensively utilized in numerous glycosylation reactions, especially for the synthesis of deoxy sugars, Ferrier products, oligosaccharides synthesis, and cross-coupling reactions in the synthesis of C2-branched sugars. Originating from carbohydrates, the fundamental building blocks of life, glycals offer a fascinating intersection of biology and chemistry, promising avenues for both basic research and practical applications.

The unique reactivity of glycals lies in the presence of endocyclic and exocyclic double bonds, which offer multiple avenues for their transformation into various biologically important building blocks. In the realm of medicinal chemistry, glycals and their derivatives exhibit promising biological activities, ranging from antimicrobial and antiviral properties to anticancer effects. Structural modifications enable fine-tuning of their pharmacological profiles, enhancing potency, selectivity, and metabolic stability. Additionally, glycals have emerged as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of diseases such as diabetes and inflammation, owing to their interactions with carbohydrate-processing enzymes and receptors.

The proposed book, “Glycals and their Derivatives”, presents an exceptional compilation of cutting-edge research on carbohydrate-derived unsaturated sugars. It embodies the most recent scientific breakthroughs in organic and medicinal chemistry, offering an in-depth examination of glycals and their extensive derivatives. With its abundance of insights and discoveries, this book is positioned to become an essential reference for professionals, students, researchers, and academics involved in the dynamic realms of drug discovery and development.