Asymmetric autoamplification in the Soai reaction
Abstract
Since its discovery in 1995, the Soai reaction remains the only experimental example of a chemical reaction capable of amplifying enantiomeric excess to a virtually enantiopure state. This review consolidates the results of three decades of research, including data from recent years that have broadened the understanding of the reaction mechanism. Competing catalytic models (dimeric, tetrameric, hemiacetal, and others) are critically reviewed; a broad spectrum of chiral triggers, ranging from circularly polarized light and chiral minerals to cryptochiral isotopomers, is systematized; and the phenomenon of absolute asymmetric synthesis is analyzed. The position of the Soai reaction among other chirality amplification mechanisms and its significance as a model for the origin of biological homochirality are discussed. The bibliography includes 159 references.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Origins and Evolution of Life
Chemistry and Stereochemistry Studies
Molecular spectroscopy and chirality
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Russian Chemical Reviews
- Publisher
- Autonomous Non-profit Organization Editorial Board of the journal Uspekhi Khimii
- Volume
- 95
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- RCR5219–RCR5219
- Publication date
- 1 May 2026
- Language
- EN