Catalytic asymmetric synthesis of chiral phosphanes

Chiral phosphanes, important ligands for metal-catalyzed asymmetric syntheses, are often prepared with compounds from the chiral pool, by using stoichiometric chiral auxiliaries, or by resolution. In sonic cases, this class of valuable compounds can be prepared more efficiently by catalytic asymmetric synthesis. This Concepts article presents an overview of these synthetic methods, including recent advances in catalysis by metal complexes, biocatalysis, organocatalysis, and ligand-accelerated catalysis.