Palladium catalysed meta-C–H functionalization reactions

The directing group assisted site selective C–H functionalization approach is having a continuous impact in the field of natural product synthesis, drug discovery and material sciences. While ortho-selective C–H functionalization has been studied extensively, meta-selective C–H functionalization has been less explored. Recent studies have highlighted the efficacy of palladium as a catalyst in activating the meta-C–H bond of arenes. Notably, the introduction of a novel palladium catalysed directing template based approach to activate the remote meta-position has created a revolutionary impact towards seeking a solution to this long standing challenge. In this review we summarize recent advances in palladium catalysed meta-C–H functionalization that have helped in creating a new outlook towards modern organic synthesis.