A Review of Click Chemistry in the Synthesis of Organophosphorus Triazoles and Their Biological Activities

Organophosphorus compounds, characterized by the incorporation of phosphorus into organic molecules, play a critical role in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and industry. Their unique electronic properties and versatility make them essential in developing therapeutic agents, pesticides, and materials. One prominent class of organophosphorus compounds is organophosphorus heterocycles, which combine the benefits of both phosphorus and cyclic structures. Triazoles, a class of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds, are particularly notable for their broad biological activities, including anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects. Traditional methods for synthesizing triazoles often encounter challenges such as low yields and non-selective products, whereas click chemistry provides a more efficient and reliable alternative. The copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne [3 + 2] cycloaddition, a cornerstone of click chemistry, allows for the rapid and selective formation of triazoles under mild conditions. When functionalized with organophosphorus groups, triazoles not only retain but often enhance their biological activities, improving their potency, selectivity, and stability. This review covers the synthesis of organophosphorus-functionalized triazoles via click chemistry and explores their molecular structure, including the coordination chemistry of these compounds. The behavior and interactions of these organophosphorus derivatives with various metal ions are also addressed, as these interactions significantly influence their chemical reactivity, stability, and bioactivity.