Palladium Iodide Catalyzed Multicomponent Carbonylative Synthesis of 2-(4-Acylfuran-2-yl)acetamides

2-Propargyl-1,3-dicarbonyl compounds have been carbonylated under oxidative conditions and with the catalysis of the PdI2/KI catalytic system to selectively afford previously unreported 2-(4-acylfuran-2-yl)acetamides in fair to good yields (54-81%) over 19 examples. The process takes place under relatively mild conditions and occurs via a mechanistic pathway involving Csp-H activation by oxidative monoamincarbonylation of the terminal triple bond of the substrates with formation of 2-ynamide intermediates, followed by 5-exo-dig O-cyclization (via intramolecular conjugate addition of the in situ formed enolate to the 2-ynamide moiety) and aromative isomerization.

Application of N-heterocyclic carbene-Cu(I) complexes as catalysts in organic synthesis: a review

N-Heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are a special type of carbenes in which the carbene carbon atom is part of the nitrogen heterocyclic ring. Due to the simplicity of their synthesis and the modularity of their stereoelectronic properties, NHCs have unquestionably emerged as one of the most fascinating and well-known species in chemical science. The remarkable stability of NHCs can be attributed to both kinetic as well as thermodynamic effects caused by its structural features. NHCs constitute a well-established class of new ligands in organometallic chemistry. Although initially NHCs were regarded as pure σ-donor ligands, later experimental and theoretical studies established the presence of a significant back donation from the d-orbital of the metal to the π* orbital of the NHC. Over the last two decades, NHC-metal complexes have been extensively used as efficient catalysts in different types of organic reactions. Of these, NHC-Cu(I) complexes found prominence for various reasons, such as ease of preparation, possibility of structural diversity, low cost, and versatile applications. This article overviews applications of NHC-Cu(I) complexes as catalysts in organic synthesis over the last 12 years, which include hydrosilylation reactions, conjugate addition, [3 + 2] cycloaddition, A3 reaction, boration and hydroboration, N-H and C(sp2)-H carboxylation, C(sp2)-H alkenylation and allylation, C(sp2)-H arylation, C(sp2)-H amidation, and C(sp2)-H thiolation. Preceding the section of applications, a brief description of the structure of NHCs, nature of NHC-metal bond, and methods of preparation of NHC-Cu complexes is provided.

First synthesis of acylated nitrocyclopropanes

Although nitrocyclopropanedicarboxylic acid esters are widely used in organic syntheses, nitrocyclopropanes with an acyl group have not yet been synthesized. When adducts of β-nitrostyrene and 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds are treated with (diacetoxyiodo)benzene and tetrabutylammonium iodide, iodination occurs at the α-position of the nitro group, and the subsequent O-attack of the enol moiety leads to 2,3-dihydrofuran. Cyclopropane was successfully synthesized through C-attack as the acyl group became bulkier. The obtained nitrocyclopropane was transformed into furan upon treatment with tin(II) chloride via a ring-opening/ring-closure process.

Asymmetric tandem conjugate addition and reaction with carbocations on acylimidazole Michael acceptors

We present here a stereoselective tandem reaction based on the asymmetric conjugate addition of dialkylzinc reagents to unsaturated acylimidazoles followed by trapping of the intermediate zinc enolate with carbocations. The use of a chiral NHC ligand provides chiral zinc enolates in high enantiomeric purities. These enolates are reacted with highly electrophilic onium compounds to afford densely substituted acylimidazoles. DFT calculations helped to understand the reactivity of the zinc enolates derived from acylimidazoles and allowed their comparison with metal enolates obtained by other conjugate addition reactions.

Enolates ambushed - asymmetric tandem conjugate addition and subsequent enolate trapping with conventional and less traditional electrophiles

Metal enolates are useful intermediates and building blocks indispensable in many organic synthetic transformations. Chiral metal enolates obtained by asymmetric conjugate additions of organometallic reagents are structurally complex intermediates that can be employed in many transformations. In this review, we describe this burgeoning field that is reaching maturity after more than 25 years of development. The effort of our group to broaden possibilities to engage metal enolates in reactions with new electrophiles is described. The material is divided according to the organometallic reagent employed in the conjugate addition step, and thus to the particular metal enolate formed. Short information on applications in total synthesis is also given.

Development of a New Methodology for Dearomative Borylation of Coumarins and Chromenes and Its Applications to Synthesize Boron-Containing Retinoids

Dearomative borylation of coumarins and chromenes via conjugate addition represents a relatively unexplored and challenging task. To address this issue, herein, we report a new and general copper (I) catalyzed dearomative borylation process to synthesize boron-containing oxacycles. In this report, the borylation of coumarins, chromones, and chromenes comprising functional groups, such as esters, nitriles, carbonyls, and amides, has been achieved. In addition, the method generates different classes of potential boron-based retinoids, including the ones with oxadiazole and anthocyanin motifs. The borylated oxacycles can serve as suitable intermediates to generate a library of compounds.

Asymmetric Alkylation of Cyclic Ketones with Dehydroalanine via H-Bond-Directing Enamine Catalysis: Straightforward Access to Enantiopure Unnatural α-Amino Acids

The growing importance of structurally diverse and functionalized enantiomerically pure unnatural amino acids in the design of drugs, including peptides, has stimulated the development of new synthetic methods. This study reports the challenging direct asymmetric alkylation of cyclic ketones with dehydroalanine derivatives via a conjugate addition reaction for the synthesis of enantiopure ketone-based α-unnatural amino acids. The key to success was the design of a bifunctional primary amine-thiourea catalyst that combines H-bond-directing activation and enamine catalysis. The simultaneous dual activation of the two relatively unreactive partners, confirmed by mass spectrometry studies, results in high reactivity while securing high levels of stereocontrol. A broad substrate scope is accompanied by versatile downstream chemical modifications. The mild reaction conditions and consistently excellent enantioselectivities (>95 % ee in most cases) render this protocol highly practical for the rapid construction of valuable noncanonical enantiopure α-amino-acid building blocks.

Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Ketones to Maleimides Organocatalyzed by a Chiral Primary Amine-Salicylamide

Enantioenriched substituted succinimides are interesting compounds, and their asymmetric organocatalytic synthesis by the conjugated addition of ketones to maleimides has been scarcely explored. This study shows the enantioselective conjugate addition of ketones to maleimides organocatalyzed by a simple primary amine-salicylamide derived from a chiral trans-cyclohexane-1,2-diamine, which provides the desired succinimides in good to excellent yields (up to 98%) and with moderate to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99%).

Synthesis of Silylated Cyclobutanone and Cyclobutene Derivatives Involving 1,4-Addition of Zinc-Based Silicon Nucleophiles

A copper‐catalyzed conjugate silylation of various cyclobutenone derivatives with Me₂PhSiZnCl ⋅ 2LiCl or (Me₂PhSi)₂Zn ⋅ xLiCl (x≤4) to generate β‐silylated cyclobutanones is reported. Trapping the intermediate enolate with ClP(O)(OPh)₂ affords silylated enol phosphates that can be further engaged in Kumada cross‐coupling reactions to yield silylated cyclobutene derivatives.

Diaminomethylenemalononitrile as a Chiral Single Hydrogen Bond Catalyst: Application to Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of α-Branched Aldehydes

An improved diaminomethylenemalononitrile organocatalyst, bearing a N,N-disubstituted structure, promoted enantioselective conjugate addition reaction of α-branched aldehydes with vinyl sulfone, affording adducts with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 96% ee). Mechanistic studies revealed that the diaminomethylenemalononitrile motif holds the vinyl sulfone substrate using a single hydrogen bond accompanied by multiple weak interactions, including electrostatic C-H⋅⋅⋅O interactions.

Reversal of Enantioselectivity in the Conjugate Addition Reaction of Cyclic Enones with the CuOTf/Azolium Catalytic System

Hydroxyamide-functionalized azolium salt (NHC•HI 4) was evaluated for dual enantioselective control in a Cu-catalyzed asymmetric conjugate addition (ACA) reaction. This investigation was based on our previously reported ACA reaction catalyzed using CuOTf combined with NHC•AgI complex 1. It was revealed that the stereocontrol of the catalytic ACA reaction depended on the order of the addition of the substrates. Additionally, the chiral NHC ligand precursors, substrates, the relationship between the catalyst ee (ee_cat) and product ee (ee_pro), and halogen counter anion were completely evaluated. These results suggested that the catalytic performance of the CuOTf/4 system was comparable with that of the CuOTf/1 system. Furthermore, to gain knowledge of the Cu species generated using CuOTf and NHC ligand precursor, the reaction of CuOTf with 1 was investigated. Although obtaining the corresponding NHC•CuX species failed, the corresponding NHC•AuCl complex 11 could be synthesized by allowing 1 to react with AuCl•SMe₂.

Visible-Light-Induced Synthesis of 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroquinolines through Formal [4+2] Cycloaddition of Acyclic α,β-Unsaturated Amides and Imides with N,N-Dialkylanilines

1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroquinolines should be applicable to the development of new pharmaceutical agents. A facile synthesis of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines that is achieved by a photoinduced formal [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of acyclic α,β-unsaturated amides and imides with N,N-dialkylanilines under visible-light irradiation, in which a new Ir^III complex photosensitizer, a thiourea, and an oxidant act cooperatively in promoting the reaction, is reported. The photoreaction enables the synthesis of a wide variety of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines, while controlling the trans/cis diastereoselectivity (>99:1) and constructing contiguous stereogenic centers. A chemoselective cleavage of an acyclic imide auxiliary is demonstrated.

Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Chiral Secondary Borylalkyl Copper Species

We report the diastereo- and enantioselective conjugate addition of chiral secondary borylalkyl copper species derived from borylalkenes in situ to α,β-unsaturated diesters. In the presence of a chiral bisphosphine-ligated CuH catalyst, the conjugate addition provides a direct access to enantioenriched alkylboron compounds containing two contiguous carbon stereogenic centers in good yield with high diastereo- and enantioselectivity (up to >98:2 dr, >99:1 er) by assembling readily available starting alkenyl reagents in a single operation without using preformed organometallic reagents or chiral auxiliaries. The resulting products were used in various organic transformations. The utility of the synthetic approach was highlighted by the synthesis of (-)-phaseolinic acid.

Generation of α-Boryl Radicals and Their Conjugate Addition to Enones: Transition-Metal-Free Alkylation of gem-Diborylalkanes

A transition-metal-free method for the alkylation of gem-diborylalkanes with α,β-unsaturated ketones has been developed. It is demonstrated that the α-boryl radicals can be generated efficiently from gem-diborylalkanes with the aid of catechol and oxidants. The α-boryl radicals formed through such process can be engaged in conjugate addition reaction with α,β-unsaturated ketones. This transformation is a straightforward method for the synthesis of γ-borylketones.

A Walk through Recent Nitro Chemistry Advances

Chemistry of nitro groups and nitro compounds has long been intensively studied. Despite their long history, new reactions and methodologies are still being found today. This is due to the diverse reactivity of the nitro group. The importance of nitro chemistry will continue to increase in the future in terms of elaborate synthesis. In this article, we will take a walk through the recent advances in nitro chemistry that have been made in past decades.

A Conjugate Addition Approach to Diazo-Containing Scaffolds with β Quaternary Centers

Structurally complex diazo-containing scaffolds are formed by conjugate addition to vinyl diazonium salts. The electrophile, a little studied α-diazonium-α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound, is formed at low temperature under mild conditions by treating β-hydroxy-α-diazo carbonyls with Sc(OTf)₃ . Conjugate addition occurs selectively at the 3-position of indole to give α-diazo-β-indole carbonyls, and enoxy silanes react to give 2-diazo-1,4-dicarbonyl products. These reactions result in the formation of tertiary and quaternary centers, and give products that would be otherwise difficult to form. Importantly, the diazo functional group is retained within the molecule for future manipulation. Treating an α-diazo ester indole addition product with Rh₂ (OAc)₄ caused a rearrangement to occur to give a 2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-2-enoate. In the case of diazo ketone compounds, this shift occurred spontaneously on prolonged exposure to the Lewis acidic reaction conditions.

Catalytic Asymmetric Three-component Hydroacyloxylation/ 1,4-Conjugate Addition of Ynamides

A highly enantioselective three-component hydroacyloxylation/1,4-conjugate addition of ortho-hydroxybenzyl alcohols, ynamides and carboxylic acids was developed under mild reaction conditions in the presence of a chiral N,N'-dioxide/Sc(OTf)₃ complex, which went through in situ generated ortho-quinone methides with α-acyloxyenamides, delivering a range of corresponding chiral α-acyloxyenamides derivatives containing gem(1,1)-diaryl skeletons in moderate to good yields with excellent ee values. The scale-up experiment and further derivation showed the practicality of this catalytic system. In addition, a possible catalytic cycle and transition state model was proposed to elucidate the origin of the stereoselectivity based on X-ray crystal structure of the α-acyloxyenamide intermediate and product.

Copper-catalysed alkylation of heterocyclic acceptors with organometallic reagents

Copper-catalysed asymmetric C–C bond-forming reactions using organometallic reagents have developed into a powerful tool for the synthesis of complex molecules with single or multiple stereogenic centres over the past decades. Among the various acceptors employed in such reactions, those with a heterocyclic core are of particular importance because of the frequent occurrence of heterocyclic scaffolds in the structures of chiral natural products and bioactive molecules. Hence, this review focuses on the progress made over the past 20 years for heterocyclic acceptors.

Conjugate Addition of Grignard Reagents to Thiochromones Catalyzed by Copper Salts: A Unified Approach to Both 2-Alkylthiochroman-4-One and Thioflavanone

Grignard reagents undergo conjugate addition to thiochromones catalyzed by copper salts to afford 2-substituted-thiochroman-4-ones, both 2-alkylthiochroman-4-ones and thioflavanones (2-arylthiochroman-4-ones), in good yields with trimethylsilyl chloride (TMSCl) as an additive. The best yields of 1,4-adducts can be attained with CuCN∙2LiCl as the copper source. Excellent yields of 2-alkyl-substituted thiochroman-4-ones and thioflavanones (2-aryl substituted) are attained with a broad range of Grignard reagents. This approach works well with both alkyl and aromatic Grignard reagents, thus providing a unified synthetic approach to privileged 2-substituted thiochroman-4-ones and a potential valuable precursor for further synthetic applications towards many pharmaceutically active molecules. The use of commercially available and/or readily prepared Grignard reagents will expedite the synthesis of a large library of both 2-alkyl substituted thiochroman-4-ones and thioflavanones for additional synthetic applications.

Comparison of Substituting Ability of Nitronate versus Enolate for Direct Substitution of a Nitro Group

α-Nitrocinnamate underwent the conjugate addition of an active methylene compound such as nitroacetate, 1,3-dicarbonyl compound, or α-nitroketone, and the following ring closure afforded functionalized heterocyclic frameworks. The reaction of cinnamate with nitroacetate occurs via nucleophilic substitution of a nitro group by the O-attack of the nitronate, which results in isoxazoline N-oxide. This protocol was applicable to 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds to afford dihydrofuran derivatives, including those derived from direct substitution of a nitro group caused by O-attack of enolate. It was found the reactivity was lowered by an electron-withdrawing group on the carbonyl moiety. When α-nitroketone was employed as a substrate, three kinds of products were possibly formed; of these, only isoxazoline N-oxide was identified. This result indicates that the substituting ability of nitronate is higher than that of enolate for the direct S_N2 substitution of a nitro group.

A Simple Zinc-Mediated Method for Selenium Addition to Michael Acceptors

In this work, we focused our attention on seleno-Michael type reactions. These were performed using zinc-selenolates generated in situ from diphenyl diselenide 1, 1,2-bis(3-phenylpropyl)diselenide 30, and protected selenocystine 31 via an efficient biphasic Zn/HCl-based reducing system. Alkenes with a variety of electron-withdrawing groups were investigated in order to gauge the scope and limitations of the process. Results demonstrated that the addition to acyclic α,β-unsaturated ketones, aldehydes, esters amides, and acids was effectively achieved and that alkyl substituents at the reactive β-centre can be accommodated. Similarly, cyclic enones undergo efficient Se-addition and the corresponding adducts were isolated in moderate to good yield. Vinyl sulfones, α,β-unsaturated nitriles, and chalcones are not compatible with these reaction conditions. A recycling experiment demonstrated that the unreacted Zn/HCl reducing system can be effectively reused for seven reaction cycles (91% conversion yield at the 7° recycling rounds).

Organocatalytic Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of Nitromethane to Benzylidene-2-Benzoyl Acetate: Asymmetric Synthesis of ABT - 627, an Endothelin Receptor Antagonist

First catalytic and enantioselective conjugate addition of nitromethane to benzylidene-2-benzoyl acetate has been developed using dihydroquinine derived squaramide catalyst with moderate to high selectivities. Asymmetric total synthesis of ABT-627, a potent ETA receptor antagonist is accomplished utilizing the developed method in overall 15.7% yield.

Cyclization Reaction-Based Turn-on Probe for Covalent Labeling of Target Proteins

Fluorescent molecules have contributed to basic biological research but there are currently only a limited number of probes available for the detection of non-enzymatic proteins. Here, we report turn-on fluorescent probes mediated by conjugate addition and cyclization (TCC probes). These probes react with multiple amino acids and exhibit a 36-fold greater emission intensity after reaction. We analyzed the reactions between TCC probes and nuclear receptors by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, spectrofluorometry, and fluorescence microscopy. In vitro analysis showed that probes consisting of a protein ligand and TCC could label vitamin D receptor and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ. Moreover, we demonstrated that not only a ligand unit but also a peptide unit can label the target protein in a complex mixture.

Stereoconvergent Conjugate Addition of Arylboronic Acids to α-Angelica Lactone Derivatives: Synthesis of Stereochemically Complex γ-Butyrolactones

Catalyzed stereoconvergent 1,4-additions to unsaturated carbonyls are rare but of high potential value. This letter details the development of enantioselective arylation reactions of boronic acids and β,γ-butenolides. These reactions are catalyzed by commercially available hydroxy[(S)-BINAP]-rhodium(I) dimer to afford stereochemically complex γ-butyrolactone derivatives. The reaction products provide functionality amenable to further manipulation and can lead to products with up to three contiguous stereocenters. The reaction proceeds under a dynamic kinetic resolution manifold by isomerizing the achiral starting material into an interconverting mixture of enantiomeric conjugate acceptors, followed by catalyst-controlled, enantiomer-selective 1,4-addition. Base-promoted racemization of the intermediate α,β-butenolide is possible due to the high kinetic and thermodynamic acidity of the γ-proton.

Total Synthesis and Structural Revision of a Harziane Diterpenoid

The first total synthesis of nominal harziane diterpenoid 1 is disclosed, whose spectral characteristics did not match those of the reported natural product. Stereochemical analysis and subsequent synthesis of the epimeric tertiary alcohol led to reassignment of configuration of the natural product as shown for 2. At the heart of the synthesis is an enyne cycloisomerization that sets a key quaternary stereocenter within a cyclobutane with high diastereocontrol. The route features strategies for the synthesis of the highly congested 6-5-7-4 carbon skeleton characteristic of the caged harziane diterpenoids.

Organocatalytic Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Aldehydes to Maleimides and Nitroalkenes in Deep Eutectic Solvents

A chiral primary amine-salicylamide is used as an organocatalyst for the enantioselective conjugate addition of α,α-disubstituted aldehydes to maleimides and nitroalkenes. The reactions are performed in deep eutectic solvents as reaction media at room temperature, leading to the corresponding adducts with enantioselectivities up to 88% (for maleimides) and 80% (for nitroalkenes). Catalyst and solvent can be recovered and reused.

Synthesis and Chemical Properties of 3-Phosphono-coumarins and 1,2-Benzoxaphosphorins as Precursors for Bioactive Compounds

Coumarins are an important class of natural heterocyclic compounds that have attracted considerable synthetic and pharmacological interest due to their various biological activities. This review emphasizes on the synthetic methods for the preparation of dialkyl 2-oxo-2H-1-benzo- pyran-3-phosphonates and alkyl 1,2-benzoxaphosphorin-3-carboxylates. Their chemical properties as acceptors in conjugate addition reactions, [2+2] and [3+2] cycloaddition reactions are discussed.

Cytotoxic Furan- and Pyrrole-Containing Scalarane Sesterterpenoids Isolated from the Sponge Scalarispongia sp

Three furan-containing scalarane sesterterpenoids (1–3) and a novel pyrrole-containing analog (4) were isolated from the sponge Scalarispongia species. Compound 3, reported in the literature as a synthetic derivative of furoscalarol 2, was for the first time isolated from a natural source. During the separation performed using a silica column in the presence of methanol, 16-methoxy derivatives (5, 6) were obtained from the unintended reaction of 2. The isolated natural products 3 and 4 and the artifact 5 showed moderate to high cytotoxicity against six human cancer cell lines, whereas compound 6, the C-16 epimer of 5, showed no cytotoxicity at a concentration of 60 μΜ.

Organocatalysts Derived from Unnatural α-Amino Acids: Scope and Applications

The organocatalytic properties of unnatural α-amino acids are reviewed. Post-translational derivatives of natural α-amino acids include 4-hydroxy-l-proline and 4-amino-l-proline scaffolds, and also proline homologues. The activity of synthetic unnatural α-amino acid-based organocatalysts, such as β-alkyl alanines, alanine-based phosphines, and tert-leucine derivatives, are reviewed herein. The organocatalytic properties of unnatural monocyclic, bicyclic, and tricyclic proline derivatives are also reviewed. Several families of these organocatalysts permit the efficient and stereoselective synthesis of complex natural products. Most of the reviewed organocatalysts accelerate the reported reactions through covalent interactions that raise the HOMO (enamine intermediates) or lower the LUMO (iminium intermediates).

Chiral Diol-Based Organocatalysts in Enantioselective Reactions

Organocatalysis has emerged as a powerful synthetic tool in organic chemistry in the last few decades. Among various classes of organocatalysis, chiral diol-based scaffolds, such as BINOLs, VANOLs, and tartaric acid derivatives, have been widely used to induce enantioselectivity due to the ability of the hydroxyls to coordinate with the Lewis acidic sites of reagents or substrates and create a chiral environment for the transformation. In this review, we will discuss the applications of these diol-based catalysts in different types of reactions, including the scopes of reactions and the modes of catalyst activation. In general, the axially chiral aryl diol BINOL and VANOL derivatives serve as the most competent catalyst for most examples, but examples of exclusive success using other scaffolds, herein, suggests that they should not be overlooked. Lastly, the examples, to date, are mainly from tartrate and biaryl diol catalysts, suggesting that innovation may be available from new diol scaffolds.

Development of Conjugate Addition of Lithium Dialkylcuprates to Thiochromones: Synthesis of 2-Alkylthiochroman-4-ones and Additional Synthetic Applications

Lithium dialkylcuprates undergo conjugate addition to thiochromones to afford 2-alkylthiochroman-4-ones in good yields. This approach provide an efficient and general synthetic approach to privileged sulfur-containing structural motifs and valuable precursors for many pharmaceuticals, starting from common substrates-thiochromones. Good yields of 2-alkyl-substituted thiochroman-4-ones are attained with lithium dialkylcuprates, lithium alkylcyanocuprates or substoichiometric amount of copper salts. The use of commercially available inexpensive alkyllithium reagents will expedite the synthesis of a large library of 2-alkyl substituted thiochroman-4-ones for additional synthetic applications.

C2 -symmetric sulfonamides as homogeneous and heterogeneous organocatalysts that mimic enzymes in enantioselective Michael additions

Herein, we report the synthesis of C2 -symmetric sulfonamides as homogeneous and heterogeneous organocatalysts and their application in the enantioselective conjugate 1,4-Michael addition of carbonylic nucleophiles to β-nitrostyrene. Organocatalysts hydrogen bond to β-nitrostyrene and enamine in the transition state, mimicking an enzyme leading to final products in high yields (up to 98%) and good enantioselectivities (up to 96%). In addition, these results were supported by density functional calculations.

A Desulfurative Strategy for the Generation of Alkyl Radicals Enabled by Visible-Light Photoredox Catalysis

Herein, we present a new desulfurative method for generating primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl radicals through visible-light photoredox catalysis. A process that involves the generation of N-centered radicals from sulfinamide intermediates, followed by subsequent fragmentation, is critical to forming the corresponding alkyl radical species. This strategy has been successfully applied to conjugate addition reactions that features mild reaction conditions, broad substrate scope (>60 examples), and good functional-group tolerance.

Recent Developments in Vinylsulfonium and Vinylsulfoxonium Salt Chemistry

This review describes advances in the literature since 2000 in the area of reactions of vinylsulfonium and vinylsulfoxonium salts, with a particular emphasis on stereoselective examples. Although the chemistry of vinylsulfonium salts was first explored back in the 1950s, and that of vinylsulfoxonium salts in the early 1970s, there has been renewed interest in these compounds since the turn of the century. This has been largely due to an increased appreciation for the many synthetic possibilities associated with these valuable electrophiles. The development of improved routes to vinylsulfonium salts allowing for their in situ generation has played a part in accelerating their study. In general, reactions of the two sulfur salt classes follow a similar mechanistic pathway: initial conjugate addition of a nucleophile to the β-position, followed by protonation of an ylide intermediate, and cyclization of tethered anion to afford monocyclic or bicyclic product (e.g., cyclopropane, aziridine, oxazole, oxazolidinone, γ-lactam or γ-lactone). Alternatively, reactions involve formation of an ylide intermediate followed by intramolecular Johnson-Corey-Chaykovsky reaction (epoxidation or cyclopropanation), and subsequent cyclization to afford the desired bicyclic product (e.g., fused bicyclic epoxide or cyclopropane).

Asymmetric Conjugate Additions of Carbonyl Compounds to Nitroalkenes under Solvent-Free Conditions Using Fluorous Diaminomethylenemalononitrile Organocatalyst

The novel fluorous organocatalyst bearing a diaminomethylenemalononitrile motif is prepared. The fluorous organocatalyst efficiently promotes asymmetric conjugate additions of ketones to nitroalkenes and results in high yields of these addition products with excellent enantioselectivities under solvent-free conditions.

Titanocene-Catalyzed Radical Opening of N-Acylated Aziridines

Aziridines activated by N-acylation are opened to the higher substituted radical through electron transfer from titanocene(III) complexes in a novel catalytic reaction. This reaction is applicable in conjugate additions, reductions, and cyclizations and suited for the construction of quaternary carbon centers. The concerted mechanism of the ring opening is indicated by DFT calculations.

Rhodium(I)-Complexes Catalyzed 1,4-Conjugate Addition of Arylzinc Chlorides to N-Boc-4-pyridone

Rhodium(I)-complexes catalyzed the 1,4-conjugate addition of arylzinc chlorides to N-Boc-4-pyridone in the presence of chlorotrimethylsilane (TMSCl). A combination of [RhCl(C₂H₄)₂]₂ and BINAP was determined to be the most effective catalyst to promote the 1,4-conjugate addition reactions of arylzinc chlorides to N-Boc-4-pyridone. A broad scope of arylzinc reagents with both electron-withdrawing and electron-donating substituents on the aromatic ring successfully underwent 1,4-conjugate addition to N-Boc-4-pyridone to afford versatile 1,4-adducts 2-substituted-2,3-dihydropyridones in good to excellent yields (up to 91%) and excellent ee (up to 96%) when (S)-BINAP was used as chiral ligand.

Phosphazene-catalyzed desymmetrization of cyclohexadienones by dithiane addition

We report a desymmetrization of cyclohexadienones by intramolecular conjugate addition of a tethered dithiane nucleophile. Mild reaction conditions allow the formation of diversely functionalized fused bicyclic lactones. The products participate in facially selective additions from the convex surface, leading to allylic alcohol derivatives.

Alkenyl Isocyanide Conjugate Additions: A Rapid Route to γ-Carbolines

Isocyanides are exceptional building blocks, the wide deployment of which in multicomponent and metal-insertion reactions belies their limited availability. The first conjugate addition/alkylation to alkenyl isocyanides is described, which addresses this deficiency. An array of organolithiums, magnesiates, enolates, and metalated nitriles add conjugately to β- and β,β-disubstituted arylsulfonyl alkenyl isocyanides to rapidly assemble diverse isocyanide scaffolds. The intermediate metalated isocyanides are efficiently trapped with electrophiles to generate substituted isocyanides incorporating contiguous tri- and tetra-substituted centers. The substituted isocyanides are ideally functionalized for elaboration into synthetic targets as illustrated by the three-step synthesis of γ-carboline N-methyl ingenine B.

Nickel-Catalyzed Barton Decarboxylation and Giese Reactions: A Practical Take on Classic Transforms

Two named reactions of fundamental importance and paramount utility in organic synthesis have been reinvestigated, the Barton decarboxylation and Giese radical conjugate addition. N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) based redox-active esters were found to be convenient starting materials for simple, thermal, Ni-catalyzed radical formation and subsequent trapping with either a hydrogen atom source (PhSiH3 ) or an electron-deficient olefin. These reactions feature operational simplicity, inexpensive reagents, and enhanced scope as evidenced by examples in the realm of peptide chemistry.

A Short Synthesis of Aphanamol I in Both Racemic and Enantiopure Forms

A short synthesis of the biologically active sesquiterpene natural product (+)-aphanamol I in both racemic and enantiopure forms is reported. Key steps include: a catalytic enantioselective conjugate addition, an oxidative radical cyclization, and a ring-expanding Claisen rearrangement.

Diastereoselective syntheses of substituted cis-hydrindanones featuring sequential inter- and intramolecular Michael reactions

The hydrindane (bicyclo[4.3.0]nonane) structural motif (1) and related cis-1-hydrindanone skeleton (2) are common substructures in many natural products. Herein, we describe efficient access to substituted cis-1-hydrindanones enabled by a sequence of Michael reactions. A copper-catalyzed intermolecular Michael addition of a cyclic silyl ketene acetal to a β-substituted-α-alkoxycarbonyl-cyclopentenone enables construction of a quaternary center and is followed, after incorporation of an additional Michael acceptor, by a second, intramolecular addition of a nucleophilic β-ketoester. This strategy affords stereoselective access to substituted bicyclic cis-hydrindanone ring systems containing up to three contiguous stereocenters.

Conjugate addition-enantioselective protonation reactions

The addition of nucleophiles to electron-deficient alkenes represents one of the more general and commonly used strategies for the convergent assembly of more complex structures from simple precursors. In this review the addition of diverse protic and organometallic nucleophiles to electron-deficient alkenes followed by enantioselective protonation is summarized. Reactions are first categorized by the type of electron-deficient alkene and then are further classified according to whether catalysis is achieved with chiral Lewis acids, organocatalysts, or transition metals.

Copper-catalyzed stereoselective conjugate addition of alkylboranes to alkynoates

A copper-catalyzed conjugate addition of alkylboron compounds (alkyl-9-BBN, prepared by hydroboration of alkenes with 9-BBN-H) to alkynoates to form β-disubstituted acrylates is reported. The addition occurred in a formal syn-hydroalkylation mode. The syn stereoselectivity was excellent regardless of the substrate structure. A variety of functional groups were compatible with the conjugate addition.

Metal-Catalyzed β-Functionalization of Michael Acceptors through Reductive Radical Addition Reactions

Transition-metal-catalyzed radical reactions are becoming increasingly important in modern organic chemistry. They offer fascinating and unconventional ways for connecting molecular fragments that are often complementary to traditional methods. In particular, reductive radical additions to α,β-unsaturated compounds have recently gained substantial attention as a result of their broad applicability in organic synthesis. This Minireview critically discusses the recent landmark achievements in this field in context with earlier reports that laid the foundation for today's developments.

Palladium-Catalyzed Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Arylboronic Acids to α,β-Unsaturated Cyclic Electrophiles

This account describes our laboratory's efforts in the development of a palladium-catalyzed asymmetric conjugate addition of arylboronic acids to cyclic conjugate acceptors. Specifically, we highlight the study of this transformation in the following areas: (a) construction of all-carbon quaternary stereocenters, (b) elucidation of the reaction mechanism,

The Emergence of Quinone Methides in Asymmetric Organocatalysis

Quinone methides (QMs) are highly reactive compounds that have been defined as "elusive" intermediates, or even as a "synthetic enigma" in organic chemistry. Indeed, there were just a handful of examples of their utilization in catalytic asymmetric settings until some years ago. This review collects organocatalytic asymmetric reactions that employ QMs as substrates and intermediates, from the early examples, mostly based on stabilized QMs bearing specific substitution patterns, to more recent contributions, which have dramatically expanded the scope of QM chemistry. In fact, it was only very recently that the generation of QMs in situ through strategies compatible with organocatalytic methodologies has been realized. This tactic has finally opened the gate to the full exploitation of these unstable intermediates, leading to a series of remarkable disclosures. Several types of synthetically powerful asymmetric addition and cycloaddition reactions, applicable to a broad range of QMs, are now available.

Octahedral Chiral-at-Metal Iridium Catalysts: Versatile Chiral Lewis Acids for Asymmetric Conjugate Additions

Octahedral iridium(III) complexes containing two bidentate cyclometalating 5-tert-butyl-2-phenylbenzoxazole (IrO) or 5-tert-butyl-2-phenylbenzothiazole (IrS) ligands in addition to two labile acetonitrile ligands are demonstrated to constitute a highly versatile class of asymmetric Lewis acid catalysts. These complexes feature the metal center as the exclusive source of chirality and serve as effective asymmetric catalysts (0.5-5.0 mol % catalyst loading) for a variety of reactions with α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds, namely Friedel-Crafts alkylations (94-99% ee), Michael additions with CH-acidic compounds (81-97% ee), and a variety of cycloadditions (92-99% ee with high d.r.). Mechanistic investigations and crystal structures of an iridium-coordinated substrates and iridium-coordinated products are consistent with a mechanistic picture in which the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds are activated by two-point binding (bidentate coordination) to the chiral Lewis acid.

Isoindolinones as Michael Donors under Phase Transfer Catalysis: Enantioselective Synthesis of Phthalimidines Containing a Tetrasubstituted Carbon Stereocenter

Readily available chiral ammonium salts derived from cinchona alkaloids have proven to be effective phase transfer catalysts in the asymmetric Michael reaction of 3-substituted isoindolinones. This protocol provides a convenient method for the construction of valuable asymmetric 3,3-disubstituted isoindolinones in high yields and  moderate to good enantioselectivity. Diastereoselectivity was also investigated in the construction of contiguous tertiary and quaternary stereocenters. The use of acrolein as Michael acceptor led to an interesting tricyclic derivative, a pyrroloisoindolinone analogue, via a tandem conjugated addition/cyclization reaction.

Diastereoselective and enantioselective conjugate addition reactions utilizing α,β-unsaturated amides and lactams

The conjugate addition reaction has been a useful tool in the formation of carbon-carbon bonds. The utility of this reaction has been demonstrated in the synthesis of many natural products, materials, and pharmacological agents. In the last three decades, there has been a significant increase in the development of asymmetric variants of this reaction. Unfortunately, conjugate addition reactions using α,β-unsaturated amides and lactams remain underdeveloped due to their inherently low reactivity. This review highlights the work that has been done on both diastereoselective and enantioselective conjugate addition reactions utilizing α,β-unsaturated amides and lactams.