N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Activation of 3-Membered Rings: Cyclopropanes, Epoxides, Azirines and Aziridines

The activations of carbonyl compounds bearing cyclopropyl, epoxyl, azirine and aziridinyl groups by N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) organic catalysts are reviewed. The reactions are introduced and discussed from 3 aspects according to the activation modes involved in these transformations. A brief summary on the achievements and the remaining challenges in NHC-catalyzed activation of cyclopropanes and their analogues is given at the end of this minireview. Our own perspectives on the future development within this highly active research field are also provided.

Automated summary

This review discusses the activations of carbonyl compounds bearing cyclopropyl, epoxyl, azirine, and aziridinyl groups by N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) organic catalysts. The reactions are introduced and discussed based on the activation modes involved in these transformations. A brief summary of the achievements and challenges in the NHC-catalyzed activation of cyclopropanes and their analogues is provided, along with our perspectives on the future development in this highly active research field.