Solvent influence in the Rh-catalyzed intramolecular 1,6 C-H insertions: A general approach to the chromane and flavanone skeletons

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/j.tet.2011.03.004

Solvent polarity and nature of the ligands on the catalyst are crucial factors that control the regioselectivity of the Rh(II) promoted intramolecular 1,6 C-H insertions versus the β-elimination. We have explored the best conditions for the preparation of flavanones and chromenes through this approach. The procedure is also an excellent way of preparing stereochemically pure Z aryl-alkenes.