Ruthenium-Catalyzed Isomerization/(Transfer) Hydrogenation of Allylic Alcohols

Abstract Allylic alcohols, renowned for their reactivity in epoxidation, dihydroxylation, allylic substitution, and isomerization, stand as pivotal intermediates in organic synthesis. While numerous reviews have delved into the above transformations of allylic alcohols, a significant void remains in the comprehensive discussion of their conversion into saturated alcohols under (transfer) hydrogenation conditions. This short review endeavors to fill that void by highlighting the tandem isomerization/(transfer) hydrogenation of allylic alcohols facilitated by ruthenium catalysts. We hope that this account will advance the understanding and application of allylic alcohols in (transfer) hydrogenation, fostering innovation and discovery in this critical area. 1 Introduction 2 Ruthenium-Catalyzed Conversion of Allylic Alcohols into Saturated Alcohols under Transfer Hydrogenation Conditions 3 Ruthenium-Catalyzed Conversion of Allylic Alcohols into Saturated Alcohols under Hydrogenation Conditions 4 Conclusion