Direct carboxamidation of cyclic 2-diazo-1,3-diketones by Rh₂(OAc)₄-catalyzed isocyanide insertion–hydrolysis

A novel and efficient strategy for the synthesis of 2-hydroxy-6-oxocyclohex-1-enecarboxamides through a Rh₂(OAc)₄-catalyzed direct carboxamidation of cyclic 2-diazo-1,3-diketones has been developed. The method features readily available starting materials, easy scalability, mild reaction conditions and a simple work-up for product isolation, which makes this strategy highly attractive. A tentative mechanism involving an isocyanide insertion and hydrolysis sequence for this reaction is proposed.