Advancements in Asymmetric Synthesis of Esomeprazole and Chiral Sulfoxide Drugs: A Comprehensive Review and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Chiral sulfoxides are widely present in biologically active molecules and pharmaceuticals, and their efficient and green synthesis has been a hot research topic. This article reviews three main methods employed in the industrial-scale synthesis of esomeprazole: transition metal catalysis, bio-enzyme catalysis, and oxaziridine oxidation. The advantages, disadvantages, and innovative progress of each method are discussed, and the challenges faced in large-scale production are analyzed. Solutions such as catalyst design, reaction process optimization, and continuous flow processes are proposed, pointing out directions for achieving efficient and green manufacturing of chiral sulfoxides drugs, which is of great significance for promoting the sustainable development of related industries.