Unusual regioselectivity in the opening of epoxides by carboxylic acid enediolates

Molecules. 2008 Jun 9;13(6):1303-11. doi: 10.3390/molecules13061303.

Abstract

Addition of carboxylic acid dianions appears to be a potential alternative to the use of aluminium enolates for nucleophilic ring opening of epoxides. These conditions require the use of a sub-stoichiometric amount of amine (10% mol) for dianion generation and the previous activation of the epoxide with LiCl. Yields are good, with high regioselectivity, but the use of styrene oxide led, unexpectedly, to a mixture resulting from the attack on both the primary and secondary carbon atoms. Generally, a low diastereoselectivity is seen on attack at the primary center, however only one diastereoisomer was obtained from attack to the secondary carbon of the styrene oxide.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carboxylic Acids / chemistry*
  • Epoxy Compounds / chemistry*

Substances

  • Carboxylic Acids
  • Epoxy Compounds
  • styrene oxide