10.1021/jo00348a046
The main content of the study involves the exploration of the synthesis of (Z)-7-alken-1-ols, which are significant as insect sex attractants, particularly pheromones for various moth species. The researchers utilized organoboranes to achieve a general, one-pot, and stereospecific synthesis of these compounds. The process began with the monohydroboration of 1-alkynes with borepane to produce trans-1-alkenylborepanes. Subsequent treatment of these compounds with iodine in the presence of a base led to a migration of the cycloalkyl chain from boron to the adjacent carbon, forming intermediates with an eight-membered borocane moiety. These intermediates then underwent rapid deiodoboronation to yield (Z)-7-alken-1-boronate esters, which upon oxidation resulted in the desired (Z)-7-alken-1-ols. This method offers a convenient route for the synthesis of specific pheromones, such as (Z)-7-dodecen-1-ol, (2)-7-dodecen-1-yl acetate, and (Z)-7-tetradecen-1-yl acetate, which are crucial for pest control in agriculture.