Recent advances in transition metal-catalyzed asymmetric electrocatalysis

Abstract

An ongoing necessity for environmentally benign academic and industrial approaches prompts the scientific community to seek resource economy. Asymmetric metalloelectrocatalysis via the fusion of electrochemical synthesis and transition metal catalysis is a powerful tool validated by increasing applications in organic synthesis. However, judicious choice of various electrocatalytic elements is required, and a general strategy for advancing this methodology is still a challenge. In this perspective, we summarize the efforts that have been put forth by chemists to develop various enantioselective electrochemical systems based on transition metals over the last three decades for optically active molecular synthesis. Application of this protocol in various transformations such as olefin functionalization, (de)hydrogenation, cross couplings, C–H bond functionalization and others is reviewed. Notably, these transformations reveal the inherent safety and precise control of asymmetric electrocatalysis in the conversion of substrates via intermediates otherwise not accessible.