Recent advances in electrochemical 1,2-difunctionalization of alkenes: mechanisms and perspectives

Abstract

In recent years, significant achievements have been made in the field of electroorganic chemistry regarding the difunctionalization of alkenes. Researchers have developed innovative strategies utilizing the unique reactivity of electrochemical processes to synthesize complex molecules with high regioselectivity and stereoselectivity. This technology is widely applied in the total synthesis of natural products and in the pharmaceutical industry. This article reviews the research progress in the electrochemical difunctionalization of alkenes through three different radical-mediated pathways over the past five years. It includes discussions on 1,2-stereoselective and non-diastereoselective difunctionalization reactions, rearrangements, intramolecular migrations, and cyclization processes. The summary emphasizes innovative electrode designs, reaction mechanisms, and the integration with other emerging technologies, highlighting the potential of this method in modern organic chemistry. Additionally, it aims to address current challenges and propose possible solutions, providing a promising direction for electrochemically mediated difunctionalization reactions of alkenes.