Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of C=O and C=N Bonds Catalyzed by [Ru(η6 arene)(diamine)] Complexes: A Multilateral Study

In these days, asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) is a very attractive method for synthesis of enantioenriched chiral compounds, especially fine chemicals such as drugs or agrochemicals. In this review, several topics related to the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of ketones and cyclic or acyclic imines are discussed. Initially, the reaction mechanism of the ATH of ketones and imines, mainly 3,4-dihydroisoquinoline derivates, is examined. Next, typical reaction conditions, structural effects of the catalyst and a substrate, and analytical methods used for ATH monitoring and practical applications of the ATH in the chemical industry are described