Catalytic Markovnikov and anti-Markovnikov functionalization of alkenes and alkynes: recent developments and trends.

The regioselective functionalization of terminal alkenes and alkynes is of utmost importance for the synthesis of a wide variety of organic products. Based on the original observation by Vladimir Markovnikov-the pioneer of this field of research-in the 19th century, the possible regioisomeric products are classified as Markovnikov or anti-Markovnikov products. Contrary to traditional belief, it is nowadays possible to control the regiochemistry of various additions of nucleophiles to alkenes and alkynes by applying different transition-metal catalysts. Recent developments in this area of selective functionalization of alkenes and alkynes are reviewed.