Novosyntesen

Novosyntesen is a term used to describe approaches in chemistry and biochemistry that focus on designing and implementing novel synthetic routes to produce organic compounds, especially those that are difficult to access through established methods. The word combines elements meaning new (novo) and synthesis (syntese). In usage, it often appears in Scandinavian scientific literature as a framing concept rather than as a formal, separate discipline.

The scope of novosyntesen includes the integration of chemical and biological methods to create new pathways for molecule construction. Key elements are retrosynthetic planning, the combination of enzymatic steps with chemical transformations (chemoenzymatic synthesis), cascade or domino reaction sequences, and the use of continuous flow processes to improve efficiency, selectivity, and scalability. Emphasis is frequently placed on sustainability, atom economy, and reducing waste.

Applications of novosyntesen span pharmaceuticals, natural product synthesis, specialty chemicals, and materials science. By enabling access to novel molecular frameworks and more efficient routes, the field supports the development of new drugs, agrochemicals, and functional materials. It also aligns with broader goals of green chemistry, such as milder conditions and minimized environmental impact.

Relationship to related fields includes synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and green chemistry. The term is not a standardized discipline but a conceptual umbrella used to describe innovative, cross-disciplinary approaches to constructing complex molecules. The use and definition of novosyntesen can vary by region and publication, reflecting evolving methods and priorities in modern synthesis.