DABCO: An Efficient Ligand for Pd and Cu‐Catalyzed Coupling Reactions

Although DABCO is mainly known as a non‐nucleophilic organic base, it can also serve as a ligand in coordination chemistry, particularly with transition metals. Its ability to bind through both nitrogen atoms makes it a versatile ligand. Its cage‐like structure provides unique steric and electronic features to metal complexes. These qualities make DABCO an attractive choice as both a base and a ligand for designing transition metal catalysts for various applications. Additionally, DABCO‐based ionic salts have attracted significant interest in organic transformations due to their distinctive and beneficial properties. Moreover, DABCO salts can be easily supported on suitable solid materials and reused multiple times, promoting sustainability and cost‐effectiveness. This mini‐review summarizes recent progress in the synthesis and applications of DABCO and its ionic salts in transition metal‐catalyzed coupling reactions, especially with Pd and Cu.