Asymmetric copper-catalyzed conjugate additions of organometallic reagents in the syntheses of natural compounds and pharmaceuticals

Org Biomol Chem. 2020 May 27;18(20):3780-3796. doi: 10.1039/d0ob00278j.

Abstract

Access to enantiopure complex molecular structures is crucial for the development of new drugs as well as agents used in crop-protection. In this regard, numerous asymmetric methods have been established. Copper-catalyzed 1,4-additions of organometallic reagents are robust C-C bond formation strategies applicable in a wide range of circumstances. This review analyses the syntheses of natural products and pharmaceutical agents, which rely on the application of asymmetric Cu-catalyzed conjugate additions of various organometallic reagents. A wide range of available organometallics, e.g. dialkylzinc, trialkylaluminum, Grignard, and organozirconium, can now be used in conjugate additions to address various synthetic challenges present in targeted natural compounds. Furthermore, efficient catalysts allow high levels of stereofidelity over a diverse array of starting Michael acceptors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products / chemical synthesis*
  • Biological Products / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Copper / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Organometallic Compounds / chemistry*
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / chemical synthesis*
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / chemistry

Substances

  • Biological Products
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Copper