A Modular and Efficient Synthesis of Functional Titanocenes

A modular synthesis of functional titanocenes featuring building blocks is described. The approach allows straightforward access to large numbers of structurally diverse titanocenes that are pertinent for catalysis, structural studies, and bioinorganic chemistry. Among the functional groups introduced are amino acids, sugars, and fluorescence labels that are attached to the cyclopentadienyl ligand as esters and amides.