Synthesis of tetraarylmethanes: 1897–2022

Abstract

Tetraarylmethanes (TAMs) contain a carbon atom bound to four aryl groups. They have found diverse applications in chemistry, materials science, chemical biology and medicinal chemistry because of their unique 3-dimensional structures. As a reflection of the high demand for TAMs, over 32,000 unique TAMs have been prepared. The distinct structures of TAMs and the crowded nature of the central carbon atom require different strategies for their syntheses. Herein we present the first review on the synthesis of TAMs, from classical approaches to modern methods, including enantioselective syntheses of TAMs. We provide a critical evaluation of methods and highlight important directions for future research into the synthesis of this aesthetically pleasing and very useful class of spherical structures.