Synthesis of Cryptophanes: Recent Advances

Abstract

This review covers the latest developments in the synthesis of cryptophane host molecules since the publication of the last extensive review by Brotin and Dutasta in 2009. The literature has been categorized according to the synthetic method for generating the cryptophane core and we also emphasize emerging late-stage functionalization approaches. The synthetic strategies towards cryptophanes can be broadly categorized into the well-established direct- (two-step), template- and coupling (or capping) methods. The examples covered in this review mainly highlight template-based synthesis, coupling approaches and late-stage functionalization.