Palladium-Catalyzed Formal Hydroalkylation of Aryl-Substituted Alkynes with Hydrazones

Abstract

We have developed an unprecedented Pd-catalyzed formal hydroalkylation of alkynes with hydrazones, which are generated in situ from naturally abundant aldehydes, as both alkylation reagents and hydrogen donors. The hydroalkylation proceeds with high regio- and stereoselectivity to form (Z)-alkenes, which are more difficult to generate compared to (E)-alkenes. The reaction is compatible with a wide range of functional groups, including hydroxy, ester, ketone, nitrile, boronic ester, amine, and halide groups. Furthermore, late-stage modifications of natural products and pharmaceutical derivatives exemplify its unique chemoselectivity, regioselectivity, and synthetic applicability. Mechanistic studies indicate the possible involvement of Pd-hydride intermediates.

Keywords: aldehydes; alkenes; alkynes; hydrazones; palladium.