N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Catalyzed Atroposelective Monoacylation of Prochiral Diols to Access Axially Chiral Tetraarylethenes

Tetraarylethene is a valuable structural motif, which is widely used in biological probes and imaging, advanced bio‐ and chemosensing platforms, and multifunctional theranostic agents. Therefore, the development of straightforward and efficient methods for the synthesis of axially chiral tetraarylethenes is of great significance. Herein, we report an NHC‐catalyzed atroposelective desymmetrization strategy that enables efficient access to axially chiral tetraarylethenes. The methodology is distinguished by its reliance on readily available starting materials, mild reaction conditions, high functional‐group tolerance, and excellent stereoselectivity. Furthermore, the approach facilitates late‐stage modification of complex natural products, highlighting its utility for synthetic innovation and drug discovery.