Heterophosphacyclanes in organic synthesis

The review gives a systematic account of the use of mono- and di-heterophosphacyclanes, containing σ³-, σ ⁴- and σ ⁵- phosphorus atoms, for the synthesis of phosphorus-free organic substances. Data concerning the reaction mechanisms, the reactivities of cyclic organophosphorus compounds, and the factors determining the synthetic result of their chemical reactions are presented. In certain cases, the effectiveness of the employment of cyclic and acyclic phosphorus-containing reagents is compared. The bibliography includes 178 references.