Synthesis and Structural Characterization of an Ibrutinib Intermediate Derivative: A Comprehensive Experiment for Undergraduate Students of Medicinal Chemistry

Chemical synthesis and structural characterization are core competencies in medicinal chemistry. Herein, we presented a comprehensive undergraduate experimental module focused on Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, integrating the synthesis and structural identification of Ibrutinib Intermediate derivatives. The curriculum encompasses prelab literature review on BTK inhibitor development, synthetic route designing, and review academic writing. In-lab feasibility analysis, target molecule synthesis, purification via recrystallization, and structural verification were carried out using HPLC-MS and NMR spectroscopy. Postlab assessments include group presentations for knowledge integration. Two cohorts of students demonstrated improved comprehension of pharmaceutical synthesis methodologies and heightened interest in medicinal chemistry through this interdisciplinary, hands-on training.