Challenges and opportunities for alkane functionalisation using molecular catalysts

-H bond functionalisation has now become a powerful tool for alkane transformations. Specifically, methods for alkane functionalisation include radical initiated C-H functionalisation, carbene/nitrene insertion, and transition metal catalysed C-H bond activation. This perspective provides a systematic and concise overview of each protocol, highlighting the factors that govern regioselectivity in these reactions. The challenges of the existing catalytic tactics and future directions for catalyst development in this field will be presented.