Suzuki–Miyaura (hetero-)aryl cross-coupling: recent findings and recommendations

Abstract

The Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling is a powerful method for carbon–carbon bond formation, widely applied with various substrates, catalysts, reagents and solvents. However, numerous reported protocols make finding optimal conditions for a specific substrate time-consuming. This tutorial review provides a comprehensive overview on recent developments in Suzuki–Miyaura reactions, focusing on optimizing the most common application: palladium and nickel phosphine catalyzed (hetero-)aryl bond formation. Key mechanistic insights into ligand selection, base and boron reagent choice as well as potential additives, and their effects on the reaction outcome are discussed in detail. Based on a systematic analysis, these parameters will be grouped together. Recommended conditions for each group will then be provided to accelerate the optimization process and enhance the application of this pivotal bond forming reaction.