Stryker's reagent

Stryker's reagent ([(PPh3)CuH]6),[1] also known as the Osborn complex, is a hexameric copper hydride ligated with triphenylphosphine.

[6] The compound can effect regioselective conjugate reductions of various carbonyl derivatives including unsaturated aldehydes, ketones, and esters.

Stryker's reagent is used in a catalytic amount where it is regenerated in the reaction in situ using a stoichiometric hydride source, often being molecular hydrogen or silanes.

If stored under an inert atmosphere (e.g., argon, nitrogen) it has indefinite shelf life.

Brief exposure to the oxygen does not destroy its activity significantly, although solvents used with Stryker's reagent should be rigorously degassed.

Stryker's Reagent [PPh 3 -CuH] 6 under nitrogen atmosphere