Organoselenium ligands in catalysis.

Organoselenium ligands are building blocks of several transition metal complexes which catalyze various organic reactions efficiently in solution. In this review the survey of developments pertaining to the designing of such complexes (along with their Se-ligands), and their uses as catalysts for various organic reactions has been presented with critical analysis of present status of the subject. Undoubtedly a new family of catalysts or their precursors has been generated by organoselenium ligands. The catalytic activity and selectivity of their metal complexes can sometimes be fine-tuned efficiently by changing the ligand's framework. They show good thermal and air-stability. This, coupled with ease in their handling and synthesis, may make them not only attractive but good alternatives to several popular catalysts.