Consecutive multicomponent reactions for the synthesis of complex molecules

Abstract

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) involving a minimum of three reactants or reaction centers are conducted in one pot and with a single operational step. This synthetic method has a good pot, atom and step economy in the preparation of diverse and complex molecular scaffolds. Consecutive MCRs, also known as sequential or multiple MCRs, by combining two or more MCRs, exhibit even higher synthetic efficiency, product structural diversity, and molecular complexity. This review article highlights the Ugi, Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé, Biginelli, Huisgen, Petasis, Gewald, and Asinger reaction-initiated consecutive MCRs.