A catalyst is prepared in situ by reaction between an aryl halide and a Ni-ligand complex. The catalyst may be used to promote chain-growth polymerization of halogen-substituted Mg or Zn monomers. Polymers, copolymers, block copolymers, polymer thin films, and surface-confined polymer brushes may be produced using the catalyst.

A catalyst is prepared in situ by reaction between an aryl halide and a Ni(0) complex. The catalyst may be used to promote chain-growth polymerization of halogen-substituted Mg or Zn monomers by a controlled radical mechanism. Polymers, co-polymers, block copolymers, polymer thin films, and surface-confined polymer brushes may be produced using the catalyst.

Provided herein is a process for the transfer-hydrogenation of ketone analogs of members of the jervine type of Veratrum alkaloids, such as cyclopamine. Also provided herein are novel ruthenium transfer-hydrogenation catalysts.