Recent Advances in Asymmetric Electrochemical Synthesis

Abstract

Asymmetric organic electrosynthesis has the core value of precisely combining the clean characteristics of electrochemistry with the high selectivity of organic synthesis. This technology utilizes electrons as ideal redox reagents, fundamentally avoiding the reliance on stoichiometric reductants or hazardous oxidants in traditional methods, and meeting the development requirements of sustainable chemistry. By precise regulation of potential and current, the reaction can selectively generate highly reactive intermediates (such as radicals and radical ions) under mild conditions, opening up a unique pathway for efficient asymmetric synthesis and demonstrating great potential in the synthesis of chiral drug molecules, natural products, and functional materials. Currently, asymmetric organic electrosynthesis based on transition‐metal catalysis, organocatalysis, and biocatalysis is flourishing, and a systematic research system has been established to achieve asymmetric coupling and functionalization reactions of various radicals. This review summarizes the research progress made in the field of asymmetric electrosynthesis since 2019, and the mechanistic considerations are comprehensively discussed, including asymmetric anodic oxidation, cathodic reduction, and paired electrolysis. Furthermore, we provide critical insights into future directions and potential challenges in this field, highlighting opportunities for further methodology development and applications for asymmetric electrosynthesis. With the continuous breakthroughs in basic research and technological innovation, asymmetric organic electrosynthesis is expected to become an indispensable core tool in chiral chemistry. KEY PLAYERS in the field of asymmetric electrochemical synthesis.