Large Nonlinear Effect Observed in the Enantiomeric Excess of Proline in Solution and That in the Solid State

A clue to the origin of chirality? A solution of proline with high enantiomeric excess (85–99 % ee) was obtained from solid proline of only 10 % ee through novel dissolution and crystallization processes (see scheme). This observation may be an explanation for the origin of chirality on Earth.