Transition metals in organic synthesis: cross-coupling, C–H activation processes and cyclisation strategies

Abstract

The number of reports on transition metal mediated cross-coupling reactions continues to expand, and 2006 represents an exciting and productive year for this area. Use of metal catalysed C–H activation in synthesis (direct functionalisation of C–H bonds) continues to increase, which is beginning to challenge the dominance of cross-coupling reactions for the synthesis of biaryl and related compounds. Some quite remarkable cyclisation methodologies have also been reported this year. A snap-shot of this chemical literature is reviewed herein. Reactions involve a metal component either catalytically or stoichiometrically and the review is divided into general reaction types. The author has emphasised reactions of current interest in academic and industrial sectors in the fields of organic, organometallic and bioorganic chemistry. The style of the review is similar to previous review articles written by the author (see ref. 1).