The Lifesciences Magazine

Source-A-representational-image-of-Bryozoan-Lichenopora Discovery of Unique Anticancer Molecules Nearly three decades ago, scientists stumbled upon a remarkable class of anticancer molecules within a group of bryozoans, marine invertebrates inhabiting tropical waters. These molecules, characterized by intricate structures comprising densely packed rings and nitrogen atoms, have piqued the interest of organic chemists worldwide. Despite numerous attempts, recreating these complex structures in the laboratory has remained a formidable challenge. Yale Chemists’ Success In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Science, a team of chemists from  Yale University  has achieved a major milestone by successfully synthesizing eight of these elusive compounds for the first time. Led by Seth Herzon, the Milton Harris ’29 Ph.D. Professor of Chemistry, the team employed a novel approach combining inventive chemical strategies with cutting-edge technology in small molecule structur...