Copper-catalyzed asymmetric carbonylative hydroallylation of vinylarenes

Abstract

We describe a novel and efficient copper-catalyzed carbonylative hydroallylation of vinylarenes, providing a direct route to chiral α,β-unsaturated ketones, which are important compounds in organic synthesis and bioactive molecules. The method employs readily accessible vinylarenes and allylic phosphates, utilizing carbon monoxide as the carbonyl source under mild reaction conditions. The reaction demonstrates a broad substrate scope, including diverse vinylarenes with various functional groups, as well as vinylarenes derived from natural products. Additionally, all four stereoisomers of a chiral allylic alcohol were prepared by employing this strategy, showcasing its versatility in stereodivergent synthesis.