Efficient approaches for the synthesis of diverse α-diazo amides

Metal-catalysed carbenoid chemistry can be exploited for the synthesis of diverse ranges of small molecules from α-diazo carbonyl compounds. In this paper, three synthetic approaches to α-diazo amides are described, and their scope and limitations are determined. On the basis of these synthetic studies, recommendations are provided to assist the selection of the most appropriate approach for specific classes of product. The availability of practical and efficient syntheses of diverse α-diazo acetamides is expected to facilitate the discovery of many different classes of bioactive small molecules.