Recent advances in organocatalytic methods for asymmetric C-C bond formation

Abstract

Beyond a doubt organocatalysis belongs to the most exciting and innovative chapters of organic chemistry today. Organocatalysis has emerged not only as a complement to metal-catalyzed reactions and to biocatalysis over the last decade, but also provides new asymmetric organocatalyzed reactions that cannot be accomplished by metal- or biocatalyzed reactions so far. A large number of organocatalytic processes are already well established in organic synthesis. Nevertheless, the number of publications in this field is still on the increase; new important results are produced constantly. This review gives a detailed overview of the latest developments and main streams in organocatalyzed asymmetric CC bond formation processes of the last three years. It is intended to outline the most important current findings focused on especially new synthetic methodologies.

Keywords: CC bond formation; Michael addition; asymmetric synthesis; organocatalysis.