Transition-metal-catalyzed auxiliary-assisted C-H functionalization using vinylcyclopropanes and cyclopropanols

Abstract

Transition-metal-catalyzed chelation-assisted C-H functionalization exploiting small strained rings has surfaced as an appealing strategy, offering a robust platform for the construction of complex molecules in a step- and atom-economic fashion. In this vein, three-membered rings, viz. vinylcyclopropanes (VCPs) and cyclopropanols, have emerged as staple coupling partners due to their inherent ring strain. Moreover, their strain release serves as a potent driving force, unlocking new possibilities in molecular engineering via sequential C-H functionalization and ring scission. Recently, significant progress has been made in this emerging domain employing the aforementioned rings. This review article focuses on directing group (DG)-assisted C-H functionalization adopting VCPs and cyclopropanols as potential coupling partners until November 2024. The advancements are organized based on the type of functionalizations achieved.