Organic synthesis of high added value molecules with MOF catalysts

Recent examples of organic synthesis of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals in confined spaces of MOFs are highlighted and compared with silica-based ordered porous solids, such as zeolites or mesoporous (organo)silica. These heterogeneous catalysts offer the possibility of stabilizing the desired transition states and/or intermediates during organic transformations of functional groups and (C–C/C–N) bond forming steps towards the desired functional high added value molecular scaffolds. A short introduction on zeolites, mesoporous silica and metal–organic frameworks is followed by relevant applications in which confined active sites in the pores promote single or multi-step organic synthesis of industrially relevant molecules. A critical discussion on the catalytic performances of the different types of hybrid inorganic–organic catalysts in the synthesis of O- and N-containing acyclic and heterocyclic molecules has been presented.