文摘
Pairing of mutually reactive functional groups in the same molecule affords enabling opportunities in chemical synthesis. Kinetically amphoteric molecules exemplify this scenario and help avoid the pitfalls of protecting-group chemistry by exploiting the innate reactivity of the functional groups. In this perspective, we highlight the recent development of MIDA (N-methyliminodiacetyl) 伪-boryl aldehydes as amphoteric building blocks that act as linchpins in the synthesis of heterocycles. This short review includes topics ranging from metal-catalyzed cyclization involving B鈥揅鈥揚d intermediates to the intramolecular Suzuki鈥揗iyaura cross-coupling that affords six- and seven-membered rings. The use of boryl aldehydes in other transformations, including halogenation and oxidation protocols, is also discussed.