NMR spectroscopy analysis in the development of inhibitors to an illicit drug proxy synthesis

CHED 452

Kathleen R. McCormick, kathleen.mccormick@loras.edu1, Suzanne Seleem2, and Predrag-Peter Ilich, peter.ilich@loras.edu1. (1) Division of Molecular and Life Sciences, Loras College, Dubuque, IA 52004, (2) Department of Chemistry, Central State University, Wilberforce, OH
Addition of lithium to anhydrous ammonia generates a solvated electron that can induce dehydroxylation of arylaminoalchohols present in solution. The reaction is believed to proceed through 1,4-cyclohexadienyl Birch-reduction-type intermediate. We have adopted this reaction and modified it by using 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic analysis of the total reaction mixture. In this way no prior separation of degradation of products is required and the analysis can be conducted without a need for expensive or prohibited internal standards. As this Li/NH3-induced reduction is used in illegal manufacturing of arylalkylamine-based drugs we have developed and tested inhibitors to the reaction that could potentially help law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal drug manufacturing activity.
 

Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Organic Chemistry
11:15 AM-1:15 PM, Monday, 14 March 2005 Convention Center -- Hall D, Poster

Division of Chemical Education

The 229th ACS National Meeting, in San Diego, CA, March 13-17, 2005