Catalytic asymmetric construction of stereogenic carbon centers that feature a gem-difluoroalkyl group

Gem-Difluoroalkyl groups, characterized as a gem-difluoromethylene group substituted by a hydrogen atom or an alkyl or other functional group, are not only valuable for the modulation of the properties of organic compounds, but are also useful for the synthesis of various fluorine-containing compounds. Currently, the catalytic asymmetric construction of stereogenic carbon centers that feature a gem-difluoroalkyl group is in its infancy. This Focus Review summarizes the latest achievements and discusses the difficulties and challenges in this field. A real gem: Catalytic enantioselective introduction of a gem-difluoroalkyl group into bioactive organic compounds can beneficially modulate their properties. Currently, methods for achieving such transformations are in their infancy but are developing quickly. This Focus Review summarizes the latest achievements and discusses the difficulties and challenges in this field.