kokonaissynteesi

Kokonaissynteesi, a Finnish term, translates to "total synthesis" in English and refers to the complete chemical synthesis of a complex natural product or molecule from simpler, readily available starting materials. This process involves a series of carefully designed chemical reactions, each step building upon the previous one to construct the target molecule's intricate structure. The goal of total synthesis is often to produce a substance for scientific study, to develop new pharmaceuticals, or to explore novel chemical methodologies.

The undertaking of a total synthesis is a significant endeavor in organic chemistry. It requires a deep understanding of chemical reactivity, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms. Chemists must meticulously plan the synthetic route, considering factors such as the efficiency of each step, the potential for side reactions, and the overall yield of the target compound. Protecting groups are frequently employed to temporarily mask reactive functional groups, preventing unwanted reactions during specific stages of the synthesis.

Total synthesis has played a crucial role in advancing organic chemistry. It has led to the discovery of new reactions and reagents, expanded the knowledge of complex molecular structures, and provided access to compounds that are difficult or impossible to obtain from natural sources. The successful completion of a total synthesis is often considered a benchmark achievement for a research group, showcasing their expertise and innovation in chemical synthesis.