C−H Functionalization of Aldehydes and Ketones with Transient Directing Groups: Recent Developments

In order to directly functionalize C−H bonds of complex molecules and, in particular, to control the regioselectivity of the reaction, a wide range of directing groups has been used. However, these directing groups need to be installed and removed for further applications, which may limit the use of C−H activation in synthesis. Concerning aldehydes and ketones, a transient directing group strategy has recently emerged to overcome this drawback. The addition of an additive, in general an amine, allowed the in situ formation of the real directing group to achieve C−H activation. This review presents the latest developments in the field over the period 2020–2023.