Organometallic-type reactions in aqueous media mediated by indium. Allylation of acyloyl-imidazoles and pyrazoles. Regioselective synthesis of β,γ-unsaturated ketones.

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4039(97)01512-8

Indium mediated coupling of allylic bromide with acyloyl-imidazoles or pyrazoles in aqueous media gives the corresponding tertiary alcohols or ketones in good yield. The reaction provides a facile regioselective synthesis of P,β,γ-unsaturated ketones and its usefulness is demonstrated by the synthesis of the monoterpene artemesia ketone.