Catalytic Synthesis of Chiral Organoselenides through Asymmetric Hydroselenation and Selenofunctionalization of Alkenes and Alkynes

Selenium, an essential biological micronutrient, has found broad applications in the design of bioactive molecules and functional materials and also functions as a distinct reactive site in chiral catalysts and ligands in synthetic chemistry. Among various strategies, the catalytic hydroselenation and selenofunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes represent one of the most direct and efficient routes for synthesizing chiral selenides. To achieve these transformations, diverse catalytic systems-including transition-metal catalysis and organocatalysis-have been developed. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the asymmetric hydroselenation and selenofunctionalization of alkenes and alkynes. Mechanisms and substrate scopes of some representative reactions are also briefly described to illustrate current capabilities and limitations, offering readers a perspective on the progress and potential of this evolving area of selenium chemistry.