β- hydroxyacid is a kind of important skeleton structure in many bioactive molecules, small molecule drugs and natural products. The efficient construction of such skeletal molecules has attracted the attention of many scientists. Epoxy compounds are very important synthons in organic synthesis and can be used to construct new C-C bonds and Carbon-hetero-bonds. However, CO₂ is a green C1 source with rich reserves and low price.

Recently, Youai Qiu's group reported on the selective geoelectrochemical reduction carboxylation synthesis of epoxy compounds β-hydroxy carboxylic acid. The reaction has good substrate application range and single regioselectivity using CO₂ as a carboxyl source. Besides, its reaction conditions are mild and simple, and no additional catalyst is needed. It also shows good compatibility with post modified natural products. Relevant achievements were recently published in Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., DOI: 10.1002/anie.202207746.

Figure 1. Reaction mode of epoxy compound and CO₂

Figure 2. Proposed mechanism