Aldehyde C-H activation with late transition metal organometallic compounds. Formation and reactivity of acyl hydrido complexes.

This perspective focuses on the aldehyde C-H activation promoted by late transition metals, including the chelation-assisted reactions. The mechanisms currently accepted for different metal complexes, the reactivity of acyl hydrido species formed, and the reactions promoted on further aldehyde when using excess reagent are discussed. Homogeneous catalytic aldehyde decarbonylation or dimerization reactions are also reviewed.