Olefin metathesis - Recent applications in synthesis

Abstract

Olefin methathesis allows for the catalytic cleavage and formation of C,C multiple bonds under mild conditions in the presence of various functional groups. Whereas ring closing metathesis has been widely used in the synthesis of cyclic olefins, less applications have been described for other metathesis types, namely cross and ring opening metathesis. The combination of these two reactions in domino processes and their application to the synthesis of complex natural products is described. © 1999 IUPAC.