Abstract

This review (Part II) is topically organized around the dienophile that is generated in a retro [4 + 2] reaction, and to the extent possible follows the principles adopted for Part I, which covers reactions in which both dienophile bonding centers are carbon atoms. The present chapter encompasses retro–Diels–Alder (rDA) reactions in which one or both of the dienophile reaction centers are heteroatoms.

Any of the other atoms in the starting material (cycloadduct) may be carbon or heteroatom. Substituents on all positions are encompassed, and any bond order available to any oxidation state of an element is included, as is bonding to non-nearest neighbor atoms (e.g., bicyclics).

The reader is directed to Part I (Vol. 52) for general discussion of the rDA reaction, the features that affect rates and outcome, and the use of acids, bases, other catalysts, and scavengers. Certain subclassifications (e.g., processes proposed under MS conditions, polymer applications) of rDA reactions have been omitted from both sections; these topics are listed in the Introduction to Part I. Citations to over 100 reviews on various aspects of the rDA reaction are collected at the beginning of the References to Part I. Those that are especially pertinent to Part II will be repeated here, in the context of the particular dienophile under discussion.

The decision to split the review of the rDA reaction into two parts was based on the volume of literature encountered, as outlined in the Introduction to Part I. Active literature searching was concluded for both Parts in April 1995, although occasional more recent references have been included.