Functional group transfer strategies unlock new synthetic avenues

Functional group transfer strategies employing bench-stable and convenient-to-handle surrogates to replace highly toxic and hazardous reagents unlock novel synthetic pathways with the prospect of green and sustainable chemistry. The development of such synthetic tools that extend beyond the use of traditional and unsustainable chemicals is highly desirable in both academic and industrial research. In this perspective, we highlight recent developments and representative progress in the area of functional group transfer strategies with respect to different types of transfer modes, such as transition-metal-catalyzed, free-radical, ionic, as well as radical-ionic transfer. Furthermore, mechanistic considerations of functional group transfer chemistry, as well as future opportunities, challenges, and efforts, are also discussed.