The bioinspired design of a reagent allows the functionalization of Cα–H of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds via the Baylis–Hillman chemistry under ambient conditions

Abstract

A rationally designed reagent capable of affecting alkylation at C_α of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds is reported. The reaction proceeded at room temperature without any additives. The pH and H-bond formation during the reaction play a key role in the working of the reagent.