Recent advances in visible-light-driven transition metal-catalyzed asymmetric functionalization of 1,3-dienes

Abstract

1,3-Dienes represent a class of abundant and versatile chemical feedstocks for constructing complex chiral allylic compounds, privileged structural motifs widely found in natural products and bioactive molecules. However, their multiple reactive sites pose a fundamental challenge to asymmetric functionalization. Traditional methods are often limited by issues such as poor selectivity, harsh reaction conditions, and unwanted byproduct formation. In recent years, visible-light-driven transition metal catalysis has emerged as a powerful strategy that enables precise control of the stereoselectivity under mild conditions, garnering significant attention. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in catalytic asymmetric functionalization of 1,3-dienes involving photoredox/palladium, copper, or chromium combinations, with a focus on reaction mechanisms, substrate adaptability, and synthetic applications. It aims to provide fundamental insights for the development of novel and efficient asymmetric catalytic methods for the transformation of 1,3-dienes.