4-Dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) is highly powerful catalyst of organic synthesis.

Uses

DMAP is a useful nucleophilic catalyst for a variety of reactions such as esterification with anhydrides, the Baylis-Hillman reaction, hydrolyzations, tritylation, the Steglich rearrangement, Staudinger synthesis of β-lactams and many more.

Safety

DMAP has a relatively high toxicity and is particularly dangerous because of its ability to be absorbed through the skin. It is also corrosive.