Recent advances in glycosylation involving novel anomeric radical precursors

Radical glycosylation has gradually become a powerful and effective method to synthesize carbohydrate mimetics as reactions via radical intermediates usually provide excellent functional group compatibility and good anomeric selectivity. Novel glycosyl radical precursors have been identified as glycosyl donors in radical glycosylation to access C-, S- and Se-glycosides. This review aims at summarizing the remarkable advances in radical glycosylation reactions to illuminate potential future research directions. Herein, the most recent literature concerning radical glycosylation is covered with a specific emphasis on radical precursor design along with discussions of consequential mechanisms.