Enantioselective Functionalization of Inert C(sp 3 )H Bonds by Photochemistry

Abstract The selective functionalization of inert CH bonds is regarded as one of the most attractive research field due to the advantages of expanding diversity, reducing waste and synthetic economy in modifying organic compounds. However, because of the high bond energy, similar bond strengths and steric environments, the CH bond functionalization meets the challenge of controlling the regio‐ and stereoselectivity. Due to the efficient electron transfer and energy transfer, the photocatalysis could provide an accessible alternative for the regioselective functionalization of inert CH bonds. In recent years, the enantioselective functionalization of inert CH bonds by photochemistry has been developed. This article summarized this field as photocatalysis with three main strategies: transition‐metal catalysis, chiral Lewis acid catalysis, and chiral organocatalysis.