Catalytic Asymmetric Cyanation Reactions

Abstract

Catalytic asymmetric cyanations of prochiral unsaturated compounds affording the corresponding nitrile products in high enantiomeric excess (≥90% in general) are summarized in this review. The nucleophilic cyanide addition onto aldehydes, ketones, and imines is promoted by chiral metal complexes and organocatalysts. Recent progress in asymmetric conjugate cyanation of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds is also discussed. The asymmetric cyanation of unactivated alkenes is catalyzed by chiral transition-metal complexes. Current topics of intramolecular carbocyanation and aminocyanation in addition to the traditional hydrocyanation are reviewed.