Catalytic Ugi Reactions: Current Advances, Future Challenges, Part 1

Abstract

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) are a very important class of reactions that are used with ever increasing frequency in the hunt for new medicinal compounds. Among these reactions, the Ugi reaction holds a special place, as it can be catalyzed by various types of catalysts. As part 1 of a two series short review (the second to be published in a later review) we discuss advances in the catalytic 3- and 4-component Ugi reactions (U-3-CR and U-4-CR, respectively) using metal and non-metal catalytic systems (in the second review we discuss: nano-catalytic systems, biocatalysis and the progress that has been made to date in the development of the catalytic asymmetric version, as well as the application of continuous flow systems and the industrial application of this exciting reaction). In this review a strong emphasis is placed on sustainable and non-conventional methods, such as microwaves, unconventional solvents (such as water and deep-eutectic-solvents) and ball-milling, etc.