Model Macrocyclic Ligands for Proof-of-Concept Mechanistic Studies in Transition-Metal Catalysis

In this Concept article, we will scrutinize different approaches devoted to the mechanistic understanding of catalytic processes, paying special attention to the successful use of triazamacrocyclic aryl-halide or arene-containing substrates used for Cu-, Ag-, Au-, Co- and Ni-catalysis. The importance of designing model substrate platforms to unravel mechanistic details at a molecular level of C-C or C-heteroatom bond-forming processes catalyzed by transition metals will be highlighted. This fundamental mechanistic knowledge will serve as a foundation for the catalyst design for a desired transformation.