Expanding roles for organoboron compounds Versatile and valuable molecules for synthetic, biological and medicinal chemistry

Abstract

The present essay offers an overview of the latest developments in the chemistry of organoboron compounds. The unique structural characteristics and the versatile reactivity profile of organoboron compounds continue to expand their roles in several areas of chemistry. A growing number of boron-mediated reactions have become vital tools for synthetic chemistry, particularly in asymmetric synthesis, metal-catalyzed processes, acid catalysis, and multicomponent reactions. As a result, boronic acids and related molecules have now evolved as major players in synthetic and medicinal chemistry. Moreover, their remnant electrophilic reactivity, even under physiological conditions, has allowed their incorporation in a growing number of bioactive molecules, including bortezomib, a clinically approved anticancer agent. Finally, the sensitive and selective binding of boronic acids to diols and carbohydrates has led to the development of a growing number of novel chemosensors for the detection, quantification, and imaging of glucose and other carbohydrates. There is no doubt that the chemistry of organoboron compounds will continue to expand into new discoveries and new applications in several fields of science. © CSIRO 2007.