Recent Advances in Asymmetric Isocyanide-Based Multicomponent Reactions

Isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions (IMCRs) can be considered one of the breakthrough reaction classes of the last century. Moreover, asymmetric IMCRs have recently developed into powerful reactions for the versatile synthesis of highly complex molecules. The progress made in the development of stereoselective Passerini and Ugi reactions has led to the advancement of catalytic asymmetric IMCRs. This review gives an overview of recent advances in the field of asymmetric IMCRs with a focus on stereoselective α-additions of isocyanides. In addition, the use of convertible isocyanides in stereoselective cascade IMCRs is covered and future opportunities and potential applications of (asymmetric) IMCRs are briefly discussed.