Mechanically Interlocked Catalysts for Asymmetric Synthesis

Abstract

Strategic global industries, such as pharmaceutics, cosmetics, or crop production, are increasingly demanding high-value enantioenriched compounds. Thus, the design and development of efficient and selective asymmetric catalysts are undoubtedly required. To solve this demanding situation, the discovery of innovative catalyst motifs, including unreported structural backbones or activation modes, that are able to overcome the actual limitations is essential. This Review discloses the mechanically interlocked molecules as emerging and powerful chiral catalysts, including their use as both organocatalysts and ligands in metal-mediated reactions. The structural and conformational properties of these entwined scaffolds, including their finely controllable responsiveness, make them privileged, although still underexplored, players in asymmetric catalysis.