Pot-Economy Autooxidative Condensation of 2-Aryl-2-lithio-1,3-dithianes

J Org Chem. 2018 Feb 16;83(4):1948-1958. doi: 10.1021/acs.joc.7b02896. Epub 2018 Jan 26.

Abstract

The autoxidative condensation of 2-aryl-2-lithio-1,3-dithianes is here reported. Treatment of 2-aryl-1,3-dithianes with n-BuLi in the absence of any electrophile leads to condensation of three molecules of 1,3-dithianes and formation of highly functionalized α-thioether ketones orthothioesters in 51-89% yields upon air exposure. The method was further expanded to benzaldehyde dithioacetals, affording corresponding orthothioesters and α-thioether ketones in 48-97% yields. The experimental results combined with density functional theory studies support a mechanism triggered by the autoxidation of 2-aryl-2-lithio-1,3-dithianes to yield a highly reactive thioester that undergoes condensation with two other molecules of 2-aryl-2-lithio-1,3-dithiane.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't