Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Synthesis of Functionalized Indenes

Abstract

Can you dig it? An asymmetric synthesis of functionalized 1H-indenes from easily available ortho-(alkynyl)styrene derivatives under mild reaction conditions has been achieved. The reactions proceed through an unprecedented and selective 5-endo-dig gold(I)-catalyzed cycloisomerization or alkoxycyclization, if water or an alcohol is present (see scheme).