Ni-catalyzed cascade cyclization-Kumada alkyl-alkyl cross-coupling

Abstract

Suggesting novel disconnections: A powerful Ni-catalyzed cascade reaction involving cyclization followed by cross-coupling allows the formation of up to three alkyl-alkyl bonds in a single operation by using alkene-containing alkyl iodides and Grignard reagents (see scheme; acac = acetylacetonate; TMEDA = N,N',N'-tetramethyl ethylenediamine). Mechanistic experimental and computational studies suggest a Ni(I)-Ni(II)-Ni(III) catalytic cycle and the intermediacy of radicals.