α-Csp3–H Bond Functionalization of Simple Ethers in Radical Reactions

Abstract

The direct α-Csp3-H functionalization of simple ethers has emerged as one of the vital strategies among radical reactions. This review discusses their applications according to the starting materials: (1) reactions with alkenes or alkynes. (2) reactions with other unsaturated compounds. (3) reactions with nucleophilic partners. Mechanisms like radical addition, elimination, oxidation, metal-catalyzed coupling, C-H activation, cyclization and rearrangement will be discussed herein.

Three‐Component Reactions of Alkenes with C−C Bond Formation: Recent Developments

“…Simple ethers, such as tetrahydrofuran (THF), 1,3‐dioxolane, and dialkyl ether, are commonly used as solvents in organic synthesis. Their C sp3 −H bonds have relatively lower bond dissociation energy, facilitating the generation of α ‐oxyalkyl radicals smoothly under oxidative conditions [16c] …”

Decade Advance of Isatin in Three‐component Reactions

“…Simple ethers, such as tetrahydrofuran, 1,4‐dioxane, are commonly used as organic solvents. The direct α ‐C sp3 −H functionalization of simple ethers is a vital strategy among radical reactions [2a] . The Gong group [2b] reported a radical‐mediated functionalization of tetrahydrofuran, leading to the synthesis of α ‐alkyloxyl peroxide 2.1 in good yields.…”