The palladium-catalyzed α-arylation of carbonyl-type compounds is a relatively emerging field within the cross-coupling arena. In recent years, these processes have experienced an exponential growth, particularly in the development of enantioselective variants of these reactions. Beyond any reasonable doubt, palladium-catalyzed α-arylation reactions represent a straightforward alternative to the classical synthesis of α-aryl carbonyl-type compounds that oftentimes involves time-consuming and economically inefficient steps. This review summarizes the last developments in the last 5 years, hence providing a general overview of the current state of the art for palladium-catalyzed α-arylation processes.
Pd-catalyzed α-arylation of carbonyl and related compounds: Recent developments and perspectives
Curr. Org. Chem. 2011, 15, 3233-3262.