Rhodium promoted isomerisation of allylic alkoxides: a new method for enolate anion formation

Abstract

Transition metal mediated isomerisation of allylic alkoxides is presented as a new method for enolate anion generation. The scope and limitations of enolate formation with the catalysts [Rh(dppe)(THF)2]+ClO4– and (Ph3P)3RhCl are explored and the synthetic potential of the methodology demonstrated in the stereoselective formation and reactions of certain ketone and aldehyde enolates.