Research progress on single-atom skeletal editing of cyclic organic compounds: reactions and mechanisms

Abstract

Organic cyclic compounds play a critical role in governing not only the physical, chemical, and spatial properties as well as the rigidity of molecular frameworks, but also their functional behavior and biological activities. In recent years, molecular skeletal editing has emerged as a rapidly advancing synthetic strategy. Through the simplification of synthetic routes and enhancement of efficiency, it has demonstrated considerable potential in various fields, including pharmaceutical development and functional material preparation. In contrast to the multi-step processes of traditional de novo synthesis, molecular skeletal editing offers an efficient and precise methodology for molecular modification. This technique allows for site-specific alterations of cyclic skeletons via precise manipulation of the core molecular architecture-such as selective insertion, deletion, or exchange of atoms. This Review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in the single-atom skeletal editing of organic cyclic compounds, with a focus on the underlying reaction mechanisms across three core transformations—single-atom insertion, deletion, and transmutation. It also outlines prospective research directions in these rapidly evolving areas.