Main Group Metal-Mediated Transformations of Imines

Main-group-metal-mediated transformations of imines have earned a valued place in the synthetic chemist's toolbox. Their versatility allows the simple preparation of various nitrogen containing compounds. This review will outline the early discoveries including metallation, addition/cyclisation and metathesis pathways, followed by the modern-day use of imines in synthetic methodology. Recent advances in imine C-F activation protocols are discussed, alongside revisiting classic imine reactivity from a sustainable perspective. Developments in catalytic methods for hydroelementation of imines have been reviewed, highlighting the importance of s-block metals in the catalytic arena. Whilst stoichiometric transformations in alternative reaction media such as deep eutectic solvents or water have been summarised. The incorporation of imines into flow chemistry has received recent attention and is summarised within.

Automated summary

Main-group-metal-mediated transformations of imines play a significant role in synthetic chemistry by allowing the simple preparation of various nitrogen-containing compounds. Recent advances in imine C-F activation protocols and catalytic methods for hydroelementation highlight the importance of imines in sustainable chemistry. The incorporation of imines into flow chemistry has also received attention as a noteworthy development.