Author Archives: Mark Peplow

C&EN: Mirror-image polymerase makes key parts of mirror ribosome

Ongoing effort to create a reflection of life’s protein-making machinery could provide access to mirror molecules for diagnostics, therapeutics, and more.

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C&EN: Molecular ring mimics photosynthetic machinery

Spoke-like templates bend a linear chain of 24 porphyrins into a light-harvesting hoop.

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Unlocking the Lanthanome

The secret biological life of lanthanides (C&EN).

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The race to upcycle CO2

Converting the greenhouse gas into useful products (Nature).

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C&EN: Chemistry and biology unite to recycle mixed plastics

No presorting needed in 2-step process that turns multiple plastics into single products.

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C&EN: Click and bioorthogonal chemistry win 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Carolyn R. Bertozzi, Morten Meldal, and K. Barry Sharpless receive prize for their work on reactions that quickly link up molecules and their application in living cells.

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C&EN: Blue-light special offers sweeter route to 𝐶-glycosides

Glycosyl sulfones need no catalyst for light-triggered radical coupling.

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C&EN: Molecular containers go supersized

Large macrocycle offers wider base for record-breaking cavitands that can trap and separate fullerenes.

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C&EN: Cyclodextrins line up for better filtration membranes

Porous films can separate molecules such as cannabidiol from organic solvents.

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C&EN: New form of lithium reacts 20 times as fast as powdered metal

Crystallized dendrites offer high purity and surface area when preparing organolithium reagents.

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