Hydration of unsaturated organic compounds is extensively utilized in organic synthesis. Classical methods using strong acids or bases often lead to the undesired decomposition of other functional groups, necessitating the pursuit of chemoselective and catalytic approaches. Although various catalysts have been developed to facilitate the hydration of unsaturated organic compounds, achieving chemoselective hydration of functionalized substrates remains a challenge. This review presents our recent works in the development of catalytic systems that hydrate specific functional groups through precise control of the catalyst structure and the reaction environment. In particular, our research on alkyne hydration and (transfer) nitrile hydration is featured.
