Gold π-Complexes as Model Intermediates in Gold Catalysis

Homogeneous gold catalysis has emerged as a powerful method for activating hydrocarbon double and triple bonds. Methodology development and computational studies have blossomed in the past 20 years. In contrast, experimental exploration of mechanisms and structure-reactivity relationships has gained traction only in the past 5 years. Recent developments in the synthesis of organometallic intermediates have revealed exciting new details about the mechanisms of gold catalysis. Central to these studies are the structure and reactivity of gold π-complexes. Following successes in structurally characterizing these key structures, advancements are gradually being made in placing them in the context of an overall catalytic cycle. As a result, a research field has emerged which is rich with potential for continued discovery and catalyst improvement.