The emergence of transition metal-catalyzed C–H bond activation/functionalization strategies has changed the landscape of synthetic design by providing chemists with new avenues to rapidly generate molecular complexity from simple structural building blocks. Among the many flourishing areas of research in this growing field are cascade reactions involving a C(sp<sup>2</sup>)–H functionalization step. A cascade reaction, also known as a tandem or domino reaction, is a chemical process wherein a minimum of two sequential chemical transformations occur in a single reaction apparatus. Through the judicious choice of substrates and catalysts, the value of this class of cascade reactions can be unveiled by delivering efficient access to various useful target molecules in short order.<br/><br/>In our continued pursuit to improve chemical efficiency through the development of cascade reactions, we have recently explored the utility of α-diazocarbonyl compounds as carbenoid precursors in transition metal-catalyzed cascade processes. Acting as a one carbon ambiphilic synthon, metal generated carbenoids have effectively served as valuable reagents in the construction of all carbon quaternary centers through the generation of two new C–C bonds in a single reaction. Our current efforts in this area, along with the development of other cascade reactions, will be presented with an emphasis on utilization of these methodologies in the synthesis of heterocycles and natural products.

Development of catalytic cascades involving a C–H functionalization step in the synthesis of heterocycles

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.