Dedicated to Professor K. Peter C. Vollhardt in recognition of his invaluable contributions
to the field of organic chemistry and his pioneering role in the development and success
of Synlett.
Abstract
Catalytic transformations of alkenes via the metal-hydride hydrogen atom transfer
(MHAT) mechanism have notably advanced synthetic organic chemistry. This Account focuses
on MHAT/radical-polar crossover (MHAT/RPC) conditions, offering a novel perspective
on generating electrophilic intermediates and facilitating various intramolecular
reactions. On using cobalt hydrides, the MHAT mechanism displays exceptional chemoselectivity
and functional group tolerance, making it invaluable for the construction of complex
biologically relevant molecules under mild conditions. Recent developments have enhanced
regioselectivity and expanded the scope of MHAT-type reactions, enabling the formation
of cyclic molecules via hydroalkoxylation, hydroacyloxylation, and hydroamination.
Notably, the addition of an oxidant to traditional MHAT systems enables the synthesis
of rare cationic alkylcobalt(IV) complexes, bridging radical mechanisms to ionic reaction
systems. This Account culminates with examples of natural product syntheses and an
exploration of asymmetric intramolecular hydroalkoxylations, highlighting the ongoing
challenges and opportunities for future research to achieve higher enantioselectivity.
This comprehensive study revisits the historical evolution of the MHAT mechanism and
provides a groundwork for further innovations on the synthesis of structurally diverse
and complex natural products.
1 Introduction
2 Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation and Hydroacyloxylation Reactions
3 Intramolecular Hydroamination Reactions
4 Intramolecular Hydroarylation Reactions
5 Deprotective Cyclization
6 Asymmetric Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation
7 Conclusion
Key words
cyclization - cobalt - metal-hydride - radical-polar crossover - alkenes