The Kabachnik–Fields Reaction: A Key Transformation in Organophosphorus Chemistry

The Kabachnik–Fields (KF) reaction is a versatile three-component condensation of amines, carbonyl compounds, and P–H reagents, enabling efficient synthesis of α-aminophosphonates—key bioactive and functional molecules. This review critically examines the literature of the last 25 years, with the exception of selected mechanistic studies, highlighting mechanistic insights. Advances in catalyst-free methodologies, sustainable synthetic approaches, Lewis and Brønsted acid catalysis are discussed, alongside developments in enantioselective KF reactions in the presence chiral metal complexes or organocatalysts.