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Allylic substitution, pioneered by the work of Tsuji and Trost, has been an invaluable tool in the synthesis of complex molecules for decades. An attractive alternative to allylic substitution is the direct functionalization of allylic C–H bonds of unactivated alkenes, thereby avoiding the need for prefunctionalization. Significant early advances in allylic C–H functionalization were made using palladium catalysis. However, Pd-catalyzed reactions are generally limited to the functionalization of terminal olefins with stabilized nucleophiles. Insights from Li, Cossy, and Tanaka demonstrated the utility of RhCp x catalysts for allylic functionalization. Since these initial reports, a number of key intermolecular Co-, Rh-, and Ir-catalyzed allylic C–H functionalization reactions have been reported, offering significant complementarity to the Pd-catalyzed reactions. Herein, we report a summary of recent advances in intermolecular allylic C–H functionalization via group IX-metal π-allyl complexes. Mechanism-driven development of new catalysts is highlighted, and the potential for future developments is discussed. 

Allylic C–H functionalization catalysed by group 9 Cp* transition-metal complexes has recently gained significant attention. These reactions have expanded allylic C–H functionalization to include di- and trisubstituted olefins, and a broad range of coupling partners. More specifically, several catalytic C–N, C–O, and C–C bond forming allylic C–H functionalization reactions have been reported, proceeding via MCp*-π-allyl intermediates. Herein we present an overview of these reactions by mechanistic paradigm. We also place this information in context of recent advances, as well as, limitations that remain for this class of reactions. 

Abstract Herein we report on the development of an oxidative allylic C−H etherification reaction, utilizing internal olefins and alcohols as simple precursors. Key advances include the use of RhCp* complexes to promote the allylic C−H functionalization of internal olefins and the compatibility of the oxidative conditions with oxidatively sensitive alcohols, enabling the direct etherification reaction. Preliminary mechanistic studies, consistent with C−H functionalization as the rate determining step, are presented.