Efficient Synthesis of γ-Keto Sulfones by NHC-Catalyzed Intermolecular Stetter Reaction

The N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed intermolecular Stetter reaction of aldehydes with α,β-unsaturated sulfones allows the atom-economic and selective formation of γ-keto sulfones in good yields. Key to the success of this unique transition-metal-free carbon–carbon bond-forming reaction is the right choice of the NHC precursor and base. The reaction tolerates a broad range of different aldehydes

Asymmetric N‑Heterocyclic Carbene (NHC)-Catalyzed Annulation of Modified Enals with Enolizable Aldehydes

N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-catalyzed highly enantioselective lactonization of modified enals with enolizable aldehydes, proceeding via the α,β-unsaturated acylazolium intermediates, is reported. The reaction results in the asymmetric synthesis of synthetically important 4,5-disubstituted dihydropyranones