Advancements in Catalysts and Synthesis Methods for Industrial Compounds

Researchers in China have developed a method for synthesizing a variety of methylenecyclobutane derivatives, overcoming previous challenges in regioselectivity, stereoselectivity, and functional group tolerance. The method utilizes a copper-catalyzed borylative cyclization reaction and achieves excellent yields under relatively benign reaction conditions. While the method is not enantioselective and has limitations in functional compatibility, it is considered practical and selective, opening up possibilities for the synthesis of novel and strained natural products in medicinal chemistry. The researchers aim to make the process enantioselective and expand its application to broader cyclobutane derivatives.