Gold(I)-catalyzed synthesis of γ-vinylbutyrolactones by intramolecular oxaallylic alkylation with alcohols

Abstract

Gold(I)-N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes proved to be a reliable catalytic system for the direct synthesis of functionalized γ-vinylbutyrolactones by intramolecular oxaallylic alkylation with primary alcohols. Good isolated chemical yields were obtained for a range of malonyl and acetate derivatives. The good performance in reagent-grade solvents and the functional group/moisture tolerance make this catalytic process a promising route for the synthesis of architecturally complex polycyclic structures.