Enhancing the CuAAC efficiency of a Cu(i)-NHC complex in biological media by encapsulation

Abstract

A novel [(NHC)2Cu]Br (Cu(i)-NHC) complex promotes CuAAC reactions in organic solvents, water, buffers and even complex biological media in good yields. Encapsulation of the Cu catalyst in an amphiphilic polymer enhances its performance in complex media, increases catalyst stability in the presence of glutathione and reduces cytotoxicity in HeLa cells.