Remote C-H bond activation/transformations: A continuous growing synthetic tool; Part II

The selective functionalization of inert C-H bonds is always challenging due to their abundance and large bond dissociation energies. Despite recent advancements, the engagement of inert building blocks for distant functionalization is the most appealing approach for the past decade for the construction of complex molecules. Along with the upsurge of proximal C-H bond activation methods, the presence of directing group or participation of ligand surmounts the challenge of regioselective remote C-H bond transformation. Remote C-H functionalization has emerged as an important tool for the direct synthesis of a variety of natural as well as pharmaceutical products. In this area, chemists are continuously designing and exploring new catalysts, ligands and directing group for the functionalization of C-H bonds which are beyond proximity. Earlier success in this area was limited to meta-position, but recently scientists have come out with new templates which can reach even para-position. The developed catalytic transformations provide access for production of a wide range of value-added products without using classical methods such as Friedel-Craft reactions, Heck coupling, etc., providing atom economical alternate and avoiding the toxic waste generation. On this topic, we have recently published a review article entitled "Distant C-H Activation/Functionalization: A New Horizon of Selectivity beyond Proximity" in the same journal, i.e., Catalysis Reviews: Science and Engineering, 2015, 57(3), 345. In continuation of this article, the present review article will cover the catalytic processes on the mentioned topic mainly developed from 2014 to 2017. The main focus will be on mechanistic pathways and the critical role of template as well as ligands. The purpose of this review is to highlight the recent advancements in remote C-H catalysis and a path ahead.