Recent Updates on Azido-reductive Cyclization Approaches: Syntheses of aza-Heterocyclic Frameworks

The first organic azide (phenyl azide) was synthesized in 1864 and since then, its structure, syntheses, and applications have reaped extreme attention from chemists across the globe. Later, the unambiguous documentation of its linear structure and chemical reactivity led to all-embracing research in the chemistry of azides. The unique electronic structure and chemical reactivity placed the organic azides at the interface between chemistry, biology, medicine, and material science. In this regard, the reaction of azides where a single-nitrogen atom is retained was well implemented for the synthesis of natural products and other vital organic frameworks embedding various aza-heterocyclic skeletons. This review emphasizes the recent applications (2015-2021) of organic azides in the synthesis of the aforementioned organic molecules employing an azido-reductive cyclization approach with the retention of a single nitrogen atom.

Automated summary

Organic azides, synthesized for the first time in 1864, have since garnered significant attention from chemists worldwide due to their unique electronic structure and chemical reactivity, leading to all-embracing research in the chemistry of azides. The recent focus (2015-2021) has been on utilizing azido-reductive cyclization approach with retention of a single nitrogen atom in the synthesis of organic molecules, particularly natural products and aza-heterocyclic frameworks.