Copper-Catalyzed Oxidation of Alkenes and Heterocycles

A variety of copper species catalyze the allylic oxidation of olefins and the introduction of an ester group at the α-position of a heterocycle. Both transformations are closely related in terms of reaction conditions and radical species involved. This short review highlights the progress made in these two types of oxidations, emphasizing work that has occurred within the last fifteen years