Reaction performance prediction with an extrapolative and interpretable graph model based on chemical knowledge

Accurate prediction of reactivity and selectivity provides the desired guideline for synthetic development. Due to the high-dimensional relationship between molecular structure and synthetic function, it is challenging to achieve the predictive modelling of synthetic transformation with the required extrapolative ability and chemical interpretability. To meet the gap between the rich domain knowledge of chemistry and the advanced molecular graph model, herein we report a knowledge-based graph model that embeds the digitalized steric and electronic information. In addition, a molecular interaction module is developed to enable the learning of the synergistic influence of reaction components. In this study, we demonstrate that this knowledge-based graph model achieves excellent predictions of reaction yield and stereoselectivity, whose extrapolative ability is corroborated by additional scaffold-based data splittings and experimental verifications with new catalysts. Because of the embedding of local environment, the model allows the atomic level of interpretation of the steric and electronic influence on the overall synthetic performance, which serves as a useful guide for the molecular engineering towards the target synthetic function. This model offers an extrapolative and interpretable approach for reaction performance prediction, pointing out the importance of chemical knowledge-constrained reaction modelling for synthetic purpose.

Automated summary

We report a knowledge-based graph model that embeds digitalized steric and electronic information to achieve predictive modeling of synthetic transformation. A molecular interaction module is developed to learn the synergistic influence of reaction components. The model demonstrates excellent predictions of reaction yield and stereoselectivity, with good extrapolative ability and atomic-level interpretation.