One-carbon homologation of arylboronic acids: a convenient approach to the synthesis of pinacol benzylboronates

Abstract

A transition-metal-free method for the synthesis of benzylic boronate esters with arylboronic acids and trimethylsilyldiazomethane (TMSCHN₂) has been developed. This transformation is a straightforward homologation of arylboronic acids, which represents a unique approach toward the preparation of pinacol benzylboronates. The reaction has a wide substrate scope and good functional-group tolerance, and it can be scaled up easily.