An Introduction to Lead and Analogue Syntheses

Once the structure of a lead has been decided it is necessary to design a synthetic pathway to produce that lead. These pathways may be broadly classified as either partial or full synthetic routes. However, partial synthetic routes tend to be more concerned with the large scale production of proven drugs rather than the synthesis of lead compounds. This chapter is intended to introduce some of the strategies used, and the challenges associated with the design of these synthetic routes. 

The full synthetic routes start with readily available compounds, both synthetic and naturally occurring, but only utilize the standard methods of organic synthesis to produce the desired product. These methods are discussed in sections 10.2 and 10.3. 

Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry, Edited by Gareth Thomas 

In both linear and convergent synthesis designs, common sense dictates that the starting materials should be chosen on the basis of what will give the best chance of reaching the desired product. In addition, they should be cheap and 

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