Editorial

The art of carrying out efficient chemical transformations is a major concern in modern organic synthesis. Two aspects are of utmost importance when considering the outcome of a reaction, selectivity and efficiency (optimization of yields). The right activation mode is, therefore, determining. In this book, activation should be understood in a rather wide sense. Activation is here described as a sort of catalysis facilitating the course of the reaction by lowering ΔG*. Activation is achieved in different ways which may be classified into physical, chemical or biochemical, physicochemical modes. Although exhaustivity is not the aim, the book tries to give a survey on the most recent advances in either traditional modes (pressure, light, chemical catalysis) or in novel techniques (microwaves, sonication, biocatalysis, hostguest activation). We found of interest to include a chapter devoted to electrocatalysis, an activation method which is apparently underestimated. The ecological chemistry in water is treated in detail. Chemical catalysis is limited to some aspects only. Catalysts such as lanthanides, current transition metals (Co, Rh, Pd, Ru...) have been so largely reviewed in recent textbooks that we felt unnecessary to include them. The book focuses on the efficiency of novel catalysts: lithium, gallium, indium, bismuth salts. Supported homogeneous catalysis is the topic of another chapter. Asymmetric catalysis is emphasized in hydrogenation reactions. Supramolecular (host-guest) catalysis is highlighted with cyclodextrins. The book ends with two important chapters describing enzymatic and antibody catalysis. In conclusion, the book reports important examples of activation modes highlighting the implementation of new synthetic strategies. It may be of great help to the organic chemists and should drive them to put it in good place within their library. At last, as guest editor, I am deeply indebted to all colleagues who accepted to contribute.