Recent Progress in Electrochemical Late-Stage C(sp2)–H Functionalization

Abstract Late-stage C–H functionalization has gained rapid development as a key approach in modern synthetic methodology, particularly for the transformation of structurally complex molecules. This strategy has reformed retrosynthetic logic and improved synthetic efficiency. C(sp2)–H functionalization, as a pivotal part in late-stage functionalization, has significantly promoted the development of medicinal chemistry. However, the latter often employ transition metal catalysts, in combination with stoichiometric amounts of chemical oxidants, which severely compromise their sustainability, functional group tolerance, and their extension to industrial applications. In sharp contrast, electrochemical late-stage C(sp2)–H functionalization has emerged as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative, where electrons are used as clean redox agents. Therefore, this approach obviates the need for toxic chemical oxidants, enabling reactions to be operative under milder conditions, allowing for a wide scope of redox transformations. In this review, we highlight the recent progress in the electrochemical late-stage functionalization of C(sp2)–H bonds from 2019 to 2025, with particular focus on the formation of C(sp2)–C, C(sp2)–O, C(sp2)–N, and C(sp2)–P bonds.