Catalytic transformation of esters of 1,2-azido alcohols into α-amido ketones

Abstract

The esters of 1,2-azido alcohols were transformed into α-amido ketones without external oxidants through the Ru-catalyzed formation of N–H imines with the liberation of N₂ followed by intramolecular migration of the acyl moiety. A wide range of α-amido ketones were obtained, and one-pot transformation into the corresponding oxazoles (or a thiazole) was demonstrated.