Use of sugar-based ligands in selective catalysis: Recent developments

This review describes recent development in the use of sugar-derived ligands in the selective synthesis of organic molecules. Developments in the recent literature (2004–2009) are highlighted in the areas of hydrogenation, 1,2- and 1,4-additions of nucleophiles to CO and CNR based substrates, cross-coupling, hydroformylation, oxidation and other reactions. Connections to earlier studies are also noted were relevant. Some suggestions as to the underlying features that make sugar-based ligands highly useful modular ligands in selective catalysis are given. Finally, advice is presented (for the non-specialist) on optimal entry points and basic starting materials for sugar-ligand synthesis.