A series of Mn­(I) catalysts containing imidazole-based chiral PNN tridentate ligands with controllable “side arm” groups have been established, enabling the asymmetrical hydrogenation of unsymmetrical benzophenones with outstanding activity (up to 13 000 TON) and excellent enantioselectivity (up to >99% ee). This protocol uses K2CO3 as an industrially desirable base and features a wide substrate scope and functional group tolerance. Moreover, the imine group in the catalyst is crucial for accessing high activities and good enantioselectivities.

A dehydrogenative [3 + 2] annulation reaction of aniline derivatives and alkenes has been developed via the ruthenium-electron catalytic systems for the synthesis of versatile indolines. Electricity is used as a sustainable oxidant to regenerate the active Ru­(II) catalyst and promote H2 evolution. This protocol is ecofriendly and easy to handle as it uses a simple undivided cell in mild conditions without the employment of metal oxidants.

The first example of metal-free B(CF)-catalyzed asymmetric reduction amination of ketones with chiral α-methylbenzylamine (α-MBA) using ammonia borane as the reductant is reported. This one-pot method has a broad substrate scope and provides various chiral amines in 81-95% yield with 80-99% de. This protocol was further applied in the total synthesis of cinacalcet.

Methylation of sulfones bearing an α-CH bond can be easily achieved via a one-step, Ru(ii) catalyzed redox neutral reaction using methanol as a sustainable C1 building block.

An eco-friendly electrochemical synthesis of sulfinic esters from thiols and alcohols under mild reaction conditions has been developed.