Research

We aim to develop new strategies and methodologies for direct molecular modification via C–H bond functionalization, as well as molecular scaffold remodeling through C–C bond conversion. Specifically, we have developed efficient halogenation, oxygenation, and nitrogenation reactions enabled by C–H/C–C bond cleavage through cascade activation and entropy-driven reconstruction processes. These efforts will establish green and efficient synthetic routes to bioactive molecules and potential drug candidates, ultimately contributing to the discovery of new chemical entities, functional molecules, and mechanisms.

Molecular modification

The direct transformation of C–H bonds into halogen-, oxygen-, and nitrogen-containing functional groups provides a powerful platform for molecular editing and synthetic diversification. Our research focuses on developing innovative strategies for direct molecular modification via C–H bond functionalization. These efforts include: (i) establishing novel late-stage halogenation protocols including the widely used DMSO/HBr and DMSO/NCS methods which were recognized as “Jiao’s Bromination” (DMSO/HBr) and “Jiao’s Chlorination” (DMSO/NCS) respectively; (ii) employing green oxidation systems to achieve C–H oxygenation; and (iii) creating new reagents and methodologies for C–H nitrogenation.

For accounts, see: Acc. Chem. Res. 2014, 47, 1137; Acc. Chem. Res. 2017, 50, 1640; Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 3161

Molecular remodeling

C–C bonds constitute the core scaffold of organic compounds. The cleavage and transformation of C–C bonds are central to molecular skeletal remodeling, providing a powerful strategy for the rapid construction and modification of molecular frameworks, the value-added transformation of bulk chemicals, and the upcycling of carbon resources such as polyolefins and biomass. Focusing on this area, our group has proposed an entropy-driven reconstruction strategy, enabling novel oxygenation and nitrogenation reactions via the cleavage of C–C single, double, and triple bonds, as well as arene ring-opening (ARO) processes. In particular, through the nitrogenation strategy, we advanced the classical Schmidt reaction by employing MeNO₂ as the nitrogen source, allowing the efficient conversion of aldehydes, ketones, alkyl arenes, and alkynes into nitriles and amides.

For accounts, see: Acc. Chem. Res. 2014, 47, 1137; Acc. Chem. Res. 2017, 50, 1640; Acc. Chem. Res. 2025, 58, 1003

Innovative Drug Discovery

Over the years, we have developed cost-effective and highly efficient methods for the precise synthesis and modification of active molecules, leading to the construction of a novel chemically diverse compound library that facilitates lead compound discovery and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. By applying these key strategies, we have identified multiple candidate drug molecules targeting novel mechanisms and pathways. Among them, the innovative drugs WS-0101 for photodynamic therapy and RS-C1001 for dyslipidemia have obtained clinical approval (Approval Numbers: 2024LP00585, 2024LP01395, 2025LP00660), and clinical trials are currently underway.