Amines in Pharmaceutical Synthesis

This module explores the synthesis of amines with a focus on the reductive amination reaction. Numerous examples from the discovery and commercial manufacturing of pharmaceuticals are included. After an introduction to traditional reductive amination methods, students evaluate the traditional methods using green chemistry principles and systems thinking approaches. Students also compare traditional methods to newer technologies, including greener chemical methods and bioenzymatic reduction processes. Students are introduced to key concepts in systems thinking and explore connections between multistep synthesis of amine-containing pharmaceuticals and UN SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and 12 (Responsible Production and Consumption). To scaffold student learning on systems thinking topics, Unit 1 focuses primarily on laboratory scale synthesis and systems within the laboratory, with attention to laboratory worker safety. Unit 2 broadens systems thinking topics to include larger scale syntheses, including manufacturing processes, and systems beyond the laboratory, such as environmental systems.

Module Goal: Students will be able to explain the mechanism for the reductive amination process and apply this reaction toward proposed syntheses of amines in pharmaceuticals. Using green chemistry principles and systems thinking analysis, students will identify benefits and limitations of reductive amination methods by comparing traditional methods, alternative green reagents, and enzymatic processes. Finally, students will critique the multistep discovery and manufacturing processes for amine-containing pharmaceuticals using green chemistry principles, systems thinking analysis, and connection to the UN Sustainability Goals (e.g., Goals 3 and 12).


The GCTLC learning object external link takes you to the ACS GCI website to download the learning materials. Once there, use the Module Overview document to guide you through using these impactful learning materials.

This module was developed by Amy Dounay and Jessica Tischler for the green chemistry educational module project with the American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute; Sarah Kennedy and David Laviska reviewed and published the module.