Trimethylsulfoxonium iodide: a green methylating agent for site-selective methylation of carbohydrates

Abstract

Partial methylation of hydroxyl groups plays a crucial role in structural modification, functional optimization, and bioactivity regulation of carbohydrate compounds. Despite its significance, research in this field remains scarce. Furthermore, traditional methylating reagents are frequently associated with toxicity and environmental pollution issues. Herein, we report the application of trimethylsulfonium iodide [(CH₃)₃S(O)I] as a green and efficient methylating agent for the methylation of carbohydrate substrates. By combining (CH₃)₃S(O)I with an efficient iron catalytic system, we achieved site selectivity and high yield in the reaction.