Catalytic Hydroboration of Carbonyl Derivatives, Imines, and Carbon Dioxide

Organoborane compounds present a class of versatile synthetic intermediate for myriad organic transformations. The direct addition of a B–H bond across unsaturated bond—namely, hydroboration—is a powerful tool for the preparation of organoborane derivatives. This review outlines recent advances in catalytic hydroboration of unsaturated organic compounds, specifically those involving C-X (X = N, O) bonds. We will discuss the chemical behavior of both transition metal catalysts and main group catalysts in hydroboration. Emphasis will also be placed on the reaction mechanism of these catalytic reactions. Furthermore, recent achievements in catalytic hydroboration of carbon dioxide CO2 will be highlighted.