Organic Synthesis—Where now?

Abstract

Organic chemistry is not a pure science, despite claims to the contrary. However, neither is it stagnating nor is it in decline. Instead, it is turning its attention to ever more challenging goals and to the fulfillment of old dreams. The author discusses important developments of the past 25 years and attempts to make a prognosis for the future. Examples of progress include the synthesis of inhibitors for all important enzymes, the production of monoclonal antibodies by gene technology for use in industry, and the application of new transition‐metal organometallics as “wonder” reagents. Furthermore, synthetic methodology will be increasingly directed toward the search for catalytic and enantioselective reactions.