Recent Advances on Radical-Mediated Cyanoalkylation/Cyanation using AIBN and Analogues as the Radical Sources

Abstract

AbstractAIBN (2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile) and analogues are readily available chemical reagents that are widely used as free-radical initiators of polymer chemistry. Importantly, AIBN and derivatives are also safe and efficient (alkyl)cyano sources for synthesizing cyano-containing scaffolds. In the past decades, synthetic strategies using AIBN and derivatives as radical sources have attracted increasing attention from the synthetic community. This review will provide a valuable tool for understanding the importance of AIBN and derivatives in the area of synthetic chemistry. In this context, we present a comprehensive review that guides readers through the developments in AIBN chemistry over the past five years from several aspects.1 Introduction2 Radical Addition onto Alkenes or Alkynes using AIBN as Cyanoalkyl Radical3 Dehydrogenated, decarboxylated cyano-alkylation by using AIBN and analogues4 Synthesis of Ketone and its Derivatives with AIBN and Analogues as Carbonyl Source5 Construction of Multi-ring Skeletons in the Presence of AIBN and Analogues6 Direct Application as Cyano (CN) Source in Cyanation Reactions7 Conclusions