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Synlett
DOI: 10.1055/a-2710-2644
DOI: 10.1055/a-2710-2644
Synpacts
The Electrosynthetic Toolkit for Stereoselective Alkene 1,2-Difunctionalization
Authors
Supported by: Royal Society of Chemistry RSC Research Enablement Grant (E21-8036614579)
Funding Information The authors thank the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC Research Enablement Grant to G.E.M.C.; E21-8036614579), the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council from UKRI (New Investigator Award to G.E.M.C. APP16460), and the University of Manchester (PhD Studentship to T.A.S.W.) for their generous financial support.
Abstract
The asymmetric 1,2-difunctionalization of alkenes stands as one of the swiftest approaches to turn ubiquitous C(sp2)-feedstocks into C(sp3)-rich chiral fine chemicals. State-of-the-art transition metal-catalyzed protocols are efficient, selective, and robust; however, they are often limited in alkene scope, functional group tolerance, and are only applicable to specialized systems. Recently, the use of synthetic electrochemistry has provided effective solutions to these challenges, fostering the development of more general, selective, and sustainable variants. In this Synpacts, we will survey selected literature examples showcasing how electrosynthetic tools have been instrumental in enabling the design of innovative diastereo- and enantioselective alkene 1,2-difunctionalization reactions. These seminal contributions have inspired us to conceive a complementary “Sew & Cut” strategy—combining the generality and selectivity of pericyclic 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions with the complexity-generating ability of radical reactivity.
Keywords
Electrosynthesis - Alkene functionalization - Radical reactivity - Asymmetric processes - 1,3-Dipolar cycloadditionsPublication History
Received: 13 August 2025
Accepted after revision: 25 September 2025
Article published online:
28 October 2025
© 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.
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