Combined Computational and Experimental Study Reveals Complex Mechanistic Landscape of Brønsted Acid-Catalyzed Silane-Dependent P═O Reduction

The reaction mechanism of Brønsted acid-catalyzed silane-dependent P═O reduction has been elucidated through combined computational and experimental methods. Due to its remarkable chemo- and stereoselective nature, the Brønsted acid/silane reduction system has been widely employed in organophosphine-catalyzed transformations involving P(V)/P(III) redox cycle. However, the full mechanistic profile of this type of P═O reduction has yet to be clearly established to date. Supported by both DFT and experimental studies, our research reveals that the reaction likely proceeds through mechanisms other than the widely accepted “dual activation mode by silyl ester” or “acid-mediated direct P═O activation” mechanism. We propose that although the reduction mechanisms may vary with the substitution patterns of silane species, Brønsted acid generally activates the silane rather than the P═O group in transition structures. The proposed activation mode differs significantly from that associated with traditional Brønsted acid-catalyzed C═O reduction. The uniqueness of P═O reduction originates from the dominant Si/O═P orbital interactions in transition structures rather than the P/H–Si interactions. The comprehensive mechanistic landscape provided by us will serve as a guidance for the rational design and development of more efficient P═O reduction systems as well as novel organophosphine-catalyzed reactions involving P(V)/P(III) redox cycle.