Isocyanide-based Multicomponent Reactions (IMCRs) in Water or Aqueous Biphasic Systems

Background: Isocyanide is an intriguing one-carbon synthon that is frequently employed in a variety of carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond-forming reactions. Isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions (IMCRs) are effective synthetic tools in organic synthesis for the preparation of complex heterocyclic molecules. The IMCRs in water have become an attractive research direction, enabling simultaneous growth of both IMCRs and green solvents towards ideal organic synthesis. Objective: The goal of this review is to provide a general overview of IMCRs in water or biphasic aqueous systems for accessing various organic molecules, as well as an examination of their benefits and mechanistic insights. Conclusion: High atom economies, mild reaction conditions, high yields, and catalyst-free processes are crucial features of these IMCRs in water or biphasic aqueous systems.