Structural Modification of Grubbs Catalysts for Stimuli-Responsive Olefin Metathesis

This thesis focuses on the development of structurally modified Grubbs-type olefin metathesis catalysts for applications in biologically relevant environments. The first part explores synthetic strategies to introduce tertiary amines and Schiff-base functionalities to the ligand framework, enabling pH-responsive behaviour and lysosomal retention through protonation under acidic conditions. These modifications aim to improve localisation, stability, and potential applicability of the catalysts in intracellular settings. The second part examines catalytic performance, activation behaviour, and substrate reactivity under standard laboratory conditions, with emphasis on ligand dissociation, initiation characteristics, and structure–reactivity relationships. Together, these studies contribute to advancing metathesis catalysis toward targeted and stimuli-responsive applications, with long-term perspectives in chemical biology and therapeutic contexts.