Advances in Combined Asymmetric Catalysis of Transition Metal/Phase Transfer Catalysts

Abstract

Phase-transfer catalysts (PTCs) are chemical agents that facilitate the transfer of molecules or ions between different reaction phases, thereby accelerating heterogeneous reaction processes. Transition metal catalysts are renowned for their versatility in breaking inert chemical bonds and forming new carbon-carbon bonds. Over the past two decades, integrating metal catalysts with phase-transfer catalysts has emerged as a highly valuable and adaptable strategy in modern organic synthesis. This combined catalytic approach highlights the enhanced synthetic capabilities and demonstrates the benefits of merging these two catalytic systems. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in asymmetric catalysis that utilize the synergy between metal and phase-transfer catalysts, focusing on their role in the rapid and efficient synthesis of complex organic molecules with precise stereochemistry.