Recent advances in decarbonylative annulation reactions

Masters of Mediation: MN(SiMe3)2 in Functionalization of C(sp3)-H Latent Nucleophiles

Organoalkali compounds have undergone a far-reaching transformation being a coupling partner to a mediator in unusual organic conversions which finds its spot in the field of sustainable synthesis. Transition-metal catalysis has always been the priority in C(sp3)-H bond functionalization, however alternatively, in recent times this has been seriously challenged by earth-abundant alkali metals and their complexes arriving at new sustainable organometallic reagents. In this line, the importance of MN(SiMe3)2 (M=Li, Na, K & Cs) reagent revived in C(sp3)-H bond functionalization over recent years in organic synthesis is showcased in this minireview. MN(SiMe3)2 reagent with higher reactivity, enhanced stability, and bespoke cation-π interaction have shown eye-opening mediated processes such as C(sp3)-C(sp3) cross-coupling, radical-radical cross-coupling, aminobenzylation, annulation, aroylation, and other transformations to utilize readily available petrochemical feedstocks. This article also emphasizes the unusual reactivity of MN(SiMe3)2 reagent in unreactive and robust C-X (X=O, N, F, C) bond cleavage reactions that occurred alongside the C(sp3)-H bond functionalization. Overall, this review encourages the community to exploit the untapped potential of MN(SiMe3)2 reagent and also inspires them to take up this subject to even greater heights.

Exploring the Divergent Reactivity of Vinyl Radicals Emanating from Alkynes and Thiols via Photoredox Catalysis

Organic chemistry has seen a surge in visible-light-driven transformations, which offer unique reaction pathways and access to new synthetic possibilities. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of state-of-the-art photo-mediated alkyne functionalization, with a focus on the reactive behavior of vinyl radicals. This review outlines our contributions to the field, including developing new methods for forming carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bonds.

Nickel-Catalyzed Decarbonylative Thioetherification of Carboxylic Acids with Thiols

A nickel-catalyzed decarbonylative thioetherification of carboxylic acids with thiols was developed. Under the reaction conditions, benzoic acids, cinnamic acids, and benzyl carboxylic acids coupled with various thiols including both aromatic and aliphatic ones produce the corresponding thioethers in up to 99% yields. Moreover, this reaction was applicable to the modification of bioactive molecules such as 3-methylflavone-8-carboxylic acid, probenecid, and flufenamic acid, and the synthesis of acaricide chlorbenside. These results well demonstrated the potential synthetic value of this new reaction in organic synthesis.

Decarbonylative cycloaddition of 1H-indene-1,2,3-trione and norbornene via rhodium(i)-catalyzed carbon–carbon bond cleavage

2,3-Dihydro-1H-inden-1-one derivatives were synthesized by a [5+2−2] decarbonylative cycloaddition of 1H-indene-1,2,3-trione and norbornene via rhodium(i) catalyzed direct carbon–carbon bond cleavage.

Gold-Catalyzed Hydroarylation Reactions: A Comprehensive Overview

The hydroarylation of alkynes, alkene, and, allene is a cost-effective and efficient way to incorporate unsaturated moieties into aromatic substrates. This review focuses on gold-catalyzed hydroarylation, which produces aromatic alkenes,...