Asymmetric Synthesis through N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalysis: A Comprehensive Review of Catalyst Diversity and Applications

Abstract

N‐Heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have become prominent organocatalysts, facilitating a diverse array of transformations characterized by high levels of chemo‐, regio‐, and enantioselectivity. This review comprehensively examines the latest developments in NHC‐catalyzed asymmetric reactions, emphasizing their roles in synthesizing architecturally intricate and pharmacologically significant compounds. Recent advances in NHC scaffold design, particularly modifications at the N‐substituent and backbone, have significantly enhanced catalyst performance. This review highlights mechanistic insights and stereochemical outcomes that shed light on the selectivity and efficiency of these catalysts. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and updated perspective that addresses recent gaps in the literature and highlights the expanding role of NHCs in sustainable and stereoselective chemical synthesis.