Transition-metal-catalyzed auxiliary-assisted C–H functionalization using vinylcyclopropanes and cyclopropanols

Abstract

Transition-metal-catalyzed chelation-assisted C–H functionalization exploiting small strained rings has surfaced as an appealing strategy, offering a robust platform for the construction of complex molecules in a step- and atom-economic fashion. In this vein, three-membered rings, viz. vinylcyclopropanes (VCPs) and cyclopropanols, have emerged as staple coupling partners due to their inherent ring strain. Moreover, their strain release serves as a potent driving force, unlocking new possibilities in molecular engineering via sequential C–H functionalization and ring scission. Recently, significant progress has been made in this emerging domain employing the aforementioned rings. This review article focuses on directing group (DG)-assisted C–H functionalization adopting VCPs and cyclopropanols as potential coupling partners until November 2024. The advancements are organized based on the type of functionalizations achieved.