Regioselective Functionalization of [2.2]Paracyclophanes: Recent Synthetic Progress and Perspectives

[2.2]Paracyclophane (PCP) is a prevalent scaffold that is widely utilized in asymmetric synthesis, p-stacked polymers, energy materials, and functional parylene coatings that finds broad applications in bioand materials science. In the last few years, [2.2]paracyclophane chemistry has progressed tremendously, enabling the fine-tuning of ist structural and functional properties. This Minireview highlights the most important recent synthetic developments in the selective functionalization of PCP that govern distinct features of planar chirality as well as chiroptical and optoelectronic properties. Special focus is given to the function-inspired design of [2.2]paracyclophane-based pstacked conjugated materials by transition-metal-catalyzed crosscoupling reactions. Current synthetic challenges, limitations, as well as future research directions and new avenues for advancing cyclophane chemistry are also summarized.