A method to modify terminal epoxide groups and lengthen carbon chains has been developed. In traditional substitution reactions, anions formed at the end of the carbon chain can be unstable and lead to several products. To help overcome this problem, a ligand is used to stabilise the anion. 

The method, devised by David Hodgson and colleagues at the University of Oxford and GlaxoSmithKline, UK, uses a 
ligand with two amine groups that can both bind to the anion, stabilising it. This allows the chain extension reaction to take place efficiently and with some selectivity. Using a ligand also means milder conditions can be used. 

The next challenge is to develop reaction conditions to make the experiments more convenient, particularly on a large scale, said Hodgson. 

Vikki Allen