Few Steps, Big Impact: Recent Advances in the Streamlined Synthesis of Multiply Chiral Heterohelicenes with Tunable Optoelectronic Properties

Abstract

Heterohelicenes with multiple chiral axes are promising materials due to their unique electronic and chiroptical features. However, their synthesis becomes more challenging as their structural complexity increases with multi-helical frameworks and various heteroatoms. This complexity requires lengthy synthetic steps and purification processes, often resulting in low yields and limiting practical applications. This review explores recent advancements to tackle these challenges, focusing on innovative strategies for the short-step synthesis of double and triple heterohelicenes. These strategies are categorized, highlighting how they improve the synthesis of functionalized materials and offer valuable opportunities for achieving a balance between synthetic efficiency and tunable properties with enhanced functionality. Remaining challenges and future potential are discussed, providing a comprehensive reference for researchers working on these molecules for next-generation technologies.