What is it about?

We've discovered a new way to make ketones, which are important compounds, without using complicated metal-based reactions. Instead, we use nitrosobenzene along with unexpensive aldehydes and boronic acids. In this new method, nitrosobenzene activates the boronic acid and the aldehyde in a way that helps them join together to form ketones. This approach is easy to use on a larger scale and is a practical way to make ketones without the need for complex processes.

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Why is it important?

1. Research Contribution: The paper introduces a novel method for synthesizing ketones using C−H functionalization of aldehydes with boronic acids. This method is innovative, efficient, and offers advantages over existing approaches. 2. Transition-Metal-Free Conditions: The paper demonstrates an effective synthesis of ketones without the need for transition metals. Transition metals are commonly used in catalysis but can have drawbacks such as toxicity and cost. 3. Significance for Synthetic Chemistry: The synthesis of ketones is a fundamental process in synthetic chemistry, and new methods for achieving this transformation are always of interest. This new method provides an improvement over existing methods, adding value to the scientific community. 4. Potential for Further Research: The paper opens up new avenues for research and inspire further studies in related areas. This could lead to the development of additional methods or applications based on the work presented.

Perspectives

Ketones are the VIPs of synthetic chemistry, essential for creating everything from natural products to life-changing pharmaceuticals. We found a simpler and more practical method to make ketones using nitrosobenzene together with affordable aldehydes and boronic acids. Our method, tested on 47 examples (including two at 1g scale), proves that you don't need fancy metal catalysts to join the party. Our discovery reveals a new interesting mechanism based on C(sp2)-H aldehyde activation and 1,4-migration from boron to carbon.

Professor Aurelio G CSAKY
Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Instituto Pluridisciplinar

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This page is a summary of: Synthesis of Ketones by C−H Functionalization of Aldehydes with Boronic Acids under Transition‐Metal‐Free Conditions, Angewandte Chemie, March 2021, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1002/anie.202015835.
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