Zn-Catalyzed Asymmetric Alkynylation of Unsaturated Aldehydes

Significance

Enantiopure propargylic alcohols are important intermediates in asymmetric synthesis, and efficient, especially catalytic, methods for their synthesis are highly valuable. Among the most straightforward routes is a catalytic addition of alkynes to aldehydes. However, its scope is not sufficiently broad so far. In this method, a wide range of alkynes and aldehydes can be used, including α,β-enals, which are usually poor substrates for such reactions. The catalyst applied is easily available and in most cases excellent enantioselectivities can be achieved.