cross-coupling represents an ideal way for the construction of new chemical bonds. However, the bond formation with loss of H 2 is typically thermodynamically unfavorable and thus usually requires an external driving force, namely, an appropriate sacrificial oxidant. Recent advances have revealed that oxidative R 1 -H/R 2 -H cross-coupling with hydrogen gas evolution can be achieved through electrochemical anodic oxidation and concomitant cathodic proton reduction. Electrochemistry provides new opportunities for the construction of carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bonds in an environmentally friendly manner. This review article gives an overview of the recent developments in this emerging field.

Ethylene and ethyne are among the simplest two-carbon building blocks. However, quite limited methods can be applied to incorporate ethylene or ethyne into fine chemicals. Here we demonstrate a cobalt-catalyzed dehydrogenative C–H/N–H [4+2] annulation of aryl/vinyl amides with ethylene or ethyne by using an electrochemical reaction protocol. Significantly, this work shows an example of electrochemical recycling of cobalt catalyst in oxidative C–H functionalization reactions, avoiding the use of external chemical oxidants and co-oxidants. The electrochemical method provides a reliable and safe way for incorporating gas-phase ethylene or ethyne into fine chemicals. High reaction efficiency and good functional group tolerance are observed under divided electrolytic conditions.

Dehydrogenative C-H/N-H cross-coupling serves as one of the most straightforward and atom-economical approaches for C-N bond formation. In this work, an electrochemical reaction protocol has been developed for the oxidative C-H amination of unprotected phenols under undivided electrolytic conditions. Neither metal catalysts nor chemical oxidants are needed to facilitate the dehydrogenation process. A series of triarylamine derivatives could be obtained with good functional-group tolerance. The electrolysis is scalable and can be performed at ambient conditions.

Among the alternative sigma factors of Listeria monocytogenes, σ B controls the largest regulon. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive review of σ B -regulated genes, and the functions they confer. Materials & methods: A systematic search of PubMed and Web of Knowledge was carried out to identify members of the σ B regulon based on experimental evidence of σ B -dependent transcription and presence of a consensus σ B -dependent promoter. Results: The literature review identified σ B -dependent transcription units encompassing 304 genes encoding different functions including stress response and virulence. Conclusion: Our review supports the well-known roles of σ B in virulence and stress response and provides new insight into novel roles for σ B in metabolism and overall resilience of L. monocytogenes.

Both bile acids and short-chain fatty acids can modulate serotonin metabolism in hosts by affecting key intermediates of the serotonin pathway. Thus, gut motility may be regulated through microbial modifications of host serotonin biosynthesis, which continues to be evaluated as a target for functional gastrointestinal disorders.