What is "desymmetrization"

n. (context chemistry English) Any reaction that results in the loss of one or more symmetry elements, but especially the conversion of a prochiral molecule into a chiral one

Desymmetrization in stereochemistry is the modification of a molecule that results in the loss of one or more symmetry elements. A common application of this class of reactions involves the introduction of chirality. Formally, such conversions required the loss of an improper axis of rotation (mirror plane, center of inversion, rotation-reflection axis). In other words, desymmetrisations convert prochiral precursors into chiral products.