On the method-dependence of transition state asynchronicity in Diels-Alder reactions.

This work discusses the dependence of transition state geometries on the choice of quantum chemical optimization method for the extensively studied Diels-Alder reaction. Rather significant differences are observed between post-Hartree-Fock methods and (hybrid) density functional theory, where the latter predicts larger asynchronicities. The results show that the low MP2 asynchronicity observed is likely artificial.

"Adapted Linear Interaction Energy": A Structure-Based LIE Parametrization for Fast Prediction of Protein-Ligand Affinities.

We present a structure-based parametrization of the Linear Interaction Energy (LIE) method and show that it allows for the prediction of absolute protein-ligand binding energies. We call the new model "Adapted" LIE (ALIE) because the α and β coefficients are defined by system-dependent descriptors and do therefore not require any empirical γ term. The best formulation attains a mean average deviation of 1.

Computational design of a Diels-Alderase from a thermophilic esterase: the importance of dynamics.

A novel computational Diels-Alderase design, based on a relatively rare form of carboxylesterase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus, is presented and theoretically evaluated. The structure was found by mining the PDB for a suitable oxyanion hole-containing structure, followed by a combinatorial approach to find suitable substrates and rational mutations. Four lead designs were selected and thoroughly modeled to obtain realistic estimates of substrate binding and prearrangement.

Stepwise Diels-Alder: more than just an oddity? A computational mechanistic study.

We have employed hybrid DFT and SCS-MP2 calculations at the SMD-PCM-6-311++G(2d,2p)//6-31+G(d) level to investigate the relationship between three possible channels for forming a Diels-Alder adduct from a highly nucleophilic diene and moderately to highly electrophilic dienophiles. We discuss geometries optimized using the B3LYP and M06-2X functionals with the 6-31+(d) basis set. The transition states and intermediates are characterized on the basis of geometric and electronic properties, and we also address the possibility of predicting detectability of a zwitterionic intermediate based on its relative stability.

Envisioning an enzymatic Diels-Alder reaction by in situ acid-base catalyzed diene generation.

We present and evaluate a new and potentially efficient route for enzyme-mediated Diels-Alder reactions, utilizing general acid-base catalysis. The viability of employing the active site of ketosteroid isomerase is demonstrated.

Computational Enzyme Design: Advances, hurdles and possible ways forward.

This mini review addresses recent developments in computational enzyme design. Successful protocols as well as known issues and limitations are discussed from an energetic perspective. It will be argued that improved results can be obtained by including a dynamic treatment in the design protocol.

Mechanistic insights into the stepwise Diels-Alder reaction of 4,6-dinitrobenzofuroxan.

The stepwise Diels-Alder reaction between 1-trimethylsiloxy-1,3-butadiene and 4,6-dinitrobenzofuroxan is explored using state-of-the-art computational methods. The results support a stepwise mechanism via a persistent intermediate, however, not the one previously reported (Lakhdar et al., Chem.

Designing a new Diels-Alderase: a combinatorial, semirational approach including dynamic optimization.

A computationally inexpensive design strategy involving 'semirational' screening for enzymatic catalysis is presented. The protocol is based on well-established computational methods and represents a holistic approach to the catalytic process. The model reaction studied here is the Diels-Alder, for which a successful computational design has recently been published (Siegel, J.

Computational design of a lipase for catalysis of the Diels-Alder reaction.

Combined molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) and density functional theory (DFT) studies have been employed to study catalysis of the Diels-Alder reaction by a modified lipase. Six variants of the versatile enzyme Candida Antarctica lipase B (CALB) have been rationally engineered in silico based on the specific characteristics of the pericyclic addition. A kinetic analysis reveals that hydrogen bond stabilization of the transition state and substrate binding are key components of the catalytic process.

Synergistic activation of the Diels-Alder reaction by an organic catalyst and substituents: a computational study.

Density functional theory (DFT), using the hybrid functionals B3LYP and B2PLYP, has been employed to investigate the activation of the acrolein-butadiene Diels-Alder reaction, mediated by a thiourea catalyst. Effects due to electron-donating groups (EDGs) on the diene, as well as electron-withdrawing groups (EWGs) on the dienophile, have also been studied. Organic catalysts such as thioureas are known to lower the activation energy through hydrogen-bonding to the carbonyl oxygen, in a way that mimics the oxyanion holes of hydrolytic enzymes.