Zirconium alkoxides in catalysis

This paper presents recent advances in the reactions catalyzed by zirconium alkoxide. Catalytic asymmetric reactions with chiral zirconium catalysts a nd redox reactions are first discussed. The diverse characteristics of zirc onium alkoxides as Lewis acids, Bronsted bases, and nucleophiles, are key f or promoting these unique reactions. Our recent development of novel reacti ons, one-pot synthesis of trans-1,2-diol derivatives and trans-beta -cyanoh ydrins from olefins, is also described. These reactions cannot be produced using other metals.