Constrained peptides and compact proteins are exciting amino acid-based molecules with strong potential as new medicines. Smaller than antibodies, they can bind protein surfaces that classical small-molecule drugs struggle to engage. Recent studies using large libraries, rational design and computational tools have produced promising drug candidates. (Image credit: Sven Ullrich.)

This article belongs to the collection: 2024–25 RACI and AAS Award papers.

Palladium and nickel-catalysed cross-coupling reactions are widely used in organic synthesis. Subtle differences in reactivity lead to each metal having advantages and disadvantages, and harnessing the unique properties of each requires a comprehensive mechanistic understanding. This review collates key insights on the transmetalation step of typical cross-coupling reactions. (Image credit: Nicholas S. D. Solomon and Sinead T. Keaveney.)

This article belongs to the collection: 2024–25 RACI and AAS Award papers.

Recent advances in the development of Co₃O₄-based catalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are reviewed, highlighting structural, electronic and design strategies to enhance activity and stability for practical proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis applications. Co₃O₄ is a promising non-precious alternative to noble metals like IrO₂ and RuO₂, but long-term stability remains a challenge. The review emphasises key engineering techniques, such as doping, surface modification and defect engineering, to enhance performance for large-scale PEM application. (Image credit: Huihui Li.)

This article belongs to the collection: 2024–25 RACI and AAS Award papers.