Science of Synthesis

Muñiz, K., Science of Synthesis: Stereoselective Synthesis, (2011) 1, 5.

General Introduction

Direct oxidative transformation of alkenes into the corresponding 1,2-difunctionalized derivatives represents a powerful tool for the introduction of heteroatoms. In principle, these transformations represent suitable approaches toward higher functionalized building blocks for subsequent synthetic application. The introduction of heteroatoms can occur either within a concerted process or within stepwise transformations. Both scenarios are known, although the concerted addition of heteroatoms from high-valent metal states has so far proven to be a more versatile approach. In this review, standard procedures for oxidative alkene transformation, including dihydroxylation, ketohydroxylation, aminohydroxylation, and diamination, will be presented. Emphasis is placed on synthesis, and mechanistic details are only given in order to underline the conceptual background of a given transformation.