An Efficient CuI-Promoted Synthesis of Tri- and Tetrasubstituted Alkenes Using Organozinc Species

Abstract

An efficient method for the synthesis of multifunctionalized alkenes has been developed. In the presence of 5 mol% Cul as catalyst, organozinc species CF 3 COOZnEt, CF 3 COOZnMe and CF 3 COOZnPh reacted with α,β-acetylenic ketones and aldehydes in one pot providing trisubstituted alkenes in high yields with stereoselectivity. The reaction with β-substituted-α,β-acetylenic ketones gave tetrasubstituted alkenes in good yields with Z-isomers as the major products.