STSM - Comparative Study of Conventional vs. Eco-Friendly Routes for N-Heterocyclic Drug Candidates

Successful Completion of STSM on Sustainable Synthesis of N-Heterocycles within COST Action OneHealthdrugs

A Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) has been successfully completed at the laboratory of Prof. Vito Capriati (University of Bari "Aldo Moro"), focusing on the development of sustainable synthetic methodologies for nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds by Gunel Aliyeva ( Baku State University, Azerbaijan). These compounds represent key structural motifs in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced materials.

The primary objective of the STSM was to integrate green chemistry approaches into heterocyclic synthesis by combining conventional organic methods with environmentally friendly cross-coupling techniques. In particular, Suzuki–Miyaura reactions were performed in green media such as water and deep eutectic solvents (DES), significantly reducing the environmental footprint of the processes.

During the visit, a series of N-heterocyclic derivatives were successfully synthesized and fully characterized using NMR, MS, and HPLC techniques. A systematic comparative study was conducted between traditional solvent-based methods and sustainable approaches. The results demonstrated that green methodologies can achieve comparable yields and selectivity while offering clear environmental advantages, including reduced solvent usage and lower waste generation.

The outcomes of the STSM contribute directly to the objectives of COST Action CA21111 “OneHealthdrugs,” particularly in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible drug discovery pipelines targeting human and animal vector-borne diseases. The work supports multiple Action Working Groups by providing new compounds for screening, environmentally relevant datasets, and transferable knowledge on green synthetic practices.

In addition to scientific achievements, the STSM facilitated strong collaboration between the home and host institutions, enabling effective knowledge transfer and hands-on training in advanced green chemistry techniques. The mission also laid the foundation for future joint research activities, including a planned collaborative publication and the preparation of a joint research proposal on sustainable synthesis of bioactive heterocycles.

The results of this STSM will be disseminated through scientific publications, conference presentations, and COST Action events, further strengthening the network’s capacity in sustainable medicinal chemistry.

This successful mission highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing innovative and environmentally responsible approaches in modern chemical research.