Synthesis of functionalized Morita–Baylis–Hillman adducts by a conjugate addition–elimination sequence

Abstract

We have developed a new conjugate addition–elimination sequence for the diastereoselective synthesis of protected allylic syn 1,3-diols which are Morita–Baylis–Hillman adducts. The synthesis of the substrates involves a challenging cross-metathesis reaction that leads to hindered trisubstituted olefins.