Progress on the Synthesis and Applications of Aminals: Scaffolds for Molecular Diversity

Aminals, characterized by a central carbon linking two nitrogen atoms, are versatile building blocks in modern chemistry. This review addresses a literature gap by exploring the synthesis and applications of aminals, with a focus on drug discovery and molecular diversity. Beyond medicinal chemistry, aminals find applications as key components in bioactive compounds and as versatile tools in materials chemistry. The review covers fundamental characteristics, synthetic methodologies, stability, and applications, emphasizing alternative synthetic methods to the well-established aldehyde–amine condensation. This inclusive exploration provides insights into diverse synthetic pathways that expand the versatility of the aminal scaffold.

1 Introduction

2 The Aminal Group

3 Aminal Synthesis

3.1 Metal-Free Approaches

3.2 Metal-Catalyzed Approaches

3.3 Photoredox Methodologies

3.4 Via Rearrangements

3.5 Via Decarboxylative Coupling

4 Aminals as Synthetic Tools

5 Synthesis of Aminal-Containing Natural Products

6 Aminal-Based Materials

7 Conclusions