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Updated: Jun 7, 2026

Optimization of the Ugi Reaction Using Parallel Synthesis and Automated Liquid Handling
Published on: November 11, 2008
A concise summary of experimental facts about the Soai reaction
Timo Gehring1, Mark Busch, Martin Schlageter
1Institut für Organische Chemie, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT), Karlsruhe 76131, Germany. mail@timogehring.de
Abstract:
The Soai reaction amplifies small enantiomeric excesses in a spectacular manner. Being known for 20 years, it has drawn the attention of many scientists in different fields as it is to date the only chemical reaction offering the chance to study the phenomenon of asymmetric autocatalysis in conjunction with high amplification of enantiomeric excess (ee). This mini-review comprises an introduction to the discovery of asymmetric autocatalysis with amplification of ee and a concise summary of published experimental results showing which starting materials and reaction parameters play an important role in this reaction and which influences are understood. It is addressed especially to scientists entering the field of the Soai reaction to get a quick overview of important aspects.
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