Gyroscope-like molecules consisting of PdX₂/PtX₂ rotators within three-spoke dibridgehead diphosphine stators: syntheses, substitution reactions, structures, and dynamic properties.

Threefold intramolecular ring-closing metatheses of trans-[MCl2(P{(CH2)(m)CH=CH2}3)2] are effected with Grubbs' catalyst. Following hydrogenation catalyzed by [RhCl(PPh3)3], the title complexes trans-[MCl2(P((CH2)n)3P)] (n=2m+2; M/n=Pt/14, 4 c; Pt/16, 4 d; Pt/18, 4 e; Pd/14, 5 c; Pd/18, 5 e) and sometimes isomers partly derived from intraligand metathesis, trans-[MCl2{P(CH2)n(CH2)n}P(CH2)n)] (4'c-e, 5'e), are isolated. These react with LiBr, NaI, and KCN to give the corresponding MBr2, MI2, and M(CN)2 species (58-99%).

Asymmetric hydroamination.

The direct addition of amine N-H bonds across an unsaturated carbon-carbon linkage gives fast and highly atom-economical access to amines. This review provides an overview of the most effective stereoselective methods using various catalyst systems based on alkali, alkaline earth, and transition metals, as well as enzymatic and organocatalytic approaches. Except for a few sporadic examples in the last century, this field has evolved primarily over the last decade.