Synthesis of functionalized alkenes via Cu(i)-catalysed allylation of acetanilides using Morita–Baylis–Hillman bromides

Abstract

An easy access to functionalized alkenes has been developed by the C–H functionalization of anilides with Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) bromides in the presence of copper chloride, TBHP and acetic acid. Unsubstituted as well as ortho/meta-substituted anilides exclusively give rise to the para-allylated products, whereas para-substitution brings about the formation of ortho-allylated anilides.