Zhen Li

Title: Zhen Li: Advancing Biomimetic C—H Hydroxylation

Introduction

Zhen Li is an inventor based in San Diego, California, and is associated with Scripps Research Institute. His work includes a patented approach to biomimetic aromatic C—H hydroxylation.

Latest Patents

Li is named on 1 patent: “Tautomeric ligand enables biomimetic C—H hydroxylation with molecular oxygen.” The patent describes a process for hydroxylating (hetero)aromatic C—H bonds in a compound of formula (1) to produce a compound of formula (2). The reaction uses palladium(II), a bidentate ligand, and molecular oxygen. One potential application is the late-stage modification of medicinally important heterocycles.

Career Highlights

The patented method highlights Li’s contribution to developing catalytic chemistry that uses molecular oxygen in aromatic hydroxylation. Such methods can support the modification of complex molecules, including compounds relevant to medicinal chemistry.

Collaborations

Li’s listed coworkers include Jin-Quan Yu and Zhen Wang. His patent work is associated with Scripps Research Institute.

Conclusion

Zhen Li’s patent documents a catalytic strategy for biomimetic C—H hydroxylation, with potential utility in modifying medicinally important heterocycles.