Tandem Rh-catalysis: decarboxylative β-keto acid and alkyne cross-coupling

Abstract

Herein, we describe a regioselective Rh-catalyzed decarboxylative cross-coupling of β-keto acids and alkynes to access branched γ,δ-unsaturated ketones. Rh-hydride catalysis enables the isomerization of an alkyne to generate a metal-allyl species that can undergo carbon–carbon bond formation. Ketones are generated under mild conditions, without the need for base or activated electrophiles.