Microwave-Assisted Kabachnik–Fields Reaction for the Synthesis of α-Aminophosphonate Derivatives: A Fast and Effective Approach

The use of microwave irradiation proves to be a promising technique for the rapid and environmentally friendly synthesis of α-aminophosphonate derivatives, ranging from simple to more complex, with diverse structural and pharmacological properties. This review presents an analogous overview of the synthesis of α-aminophosphonate derivatives <i>via</i> the Kabachnik– Fields reaction from dialkyl phosphonates, utilizing microwave irradiation as a versatile and effective method. Compared to classical heating methods, often characterized by longer reaction times, several synthesis steps, lower yields, and less efficient energy transfer, the assistance of microwave irradiation provides significant advantages to the synthesis, including shorter reaction times, higher product yields, and improved purity. Several strategies and reaction conditions for the synthesis of α-aminophosphonates under microwave irradiation have been analyzed and discussed, including the use of different catalysts, solvents, and starting materials.