Shedding light on synthetic autocatalysis : from conventional closed‐shell chemistries to overlooked open‐shell occurrences

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Kaur, Jaspreet and Barham, Joshua P. (2026) Shedding light on synthetic autocatalysis : from conventional closed‐shell chemistries to overlooked open‐shell occurrences. Chemistry - A European Journal, 32 (28). e02075. ISSN 1521-3765 (https://doi.org/10.1002/chem.202502075)

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Abstract

Autocatalysis is a kinetic phenomenon where a reaction product catalyzes its own formation, often leading to sigmoidal reaction profiles and exponential rate acceleration. This process plays a fundamental role in biological systems, for example, in chemistry of the origins of life. Although synthetic reactions are not as widely reported as the biological studies, autocatalysis offers a unique mechanism and high efficiency to organic synthesis. This review highlights diverse synthetic examples in various autocatalytic mechanistic paradigms, including well-studied examples such as the Soai reaction. We also explore emerging examples in radical- and photochemistry-based systems, emphasizing recent advances in auto-photocatalysis. By exploring examples from different fields, this review aims to highlight the variety and potential of autocatalytic reactions for synthesis. We aim to encourage further research into autocatalysis as a powerful strategy for improving reaction efficiency, revealing new reaction pathways, and inspiring innovative catalytic methodologies.

ORCID iDs

Kaur, Jaspreet and Barham, Joshua P. ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1675-9399;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)