Summary
Researchers have discovered a new way to make pharmaceutical building blocks more cheaply and sustainably. This method uses glucose from wood biomass to create an important chemical needed for various drugs, potentially lowering drug costs.
Key Facts
- A new process to make pharmaceuticals could reduce drug costs.
- The process uses glucose from wood materials like chips and sawdust.
- The method creates (S)-3-hydroxy-γ-butyrolactone (HBL), a crucial building block for drugs.
- HBL is used in making drugs such as statins, antibiotics, and HIV inhibitors.
- The new method is more sustainable than current fossil-based processes.
- Researchers say production costs are reduced by over 60%.
- This approach may lead to fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
- Future steps include scaling up the process for commercial use.
