Synthesis and derivatization of highly-functionalized λ5-phospholes

Abstract

A variety of λ⁵-phosphole derivatives bearing up to three distinct peripheral functionalities have been prepared by regiospecific [3+2] cycloaddition reactions of the diphosphinoketenimine (PPh₂)₂CCNtBu (1) with electron-poor alkenes. Selective derivatization of the exocyclic functional groups, including formation of dimetallic complexes with a phosphole core, was subsequently accomplished.