One-Pot Transition-Metal-Free Synthesis of Alkynyl Amides

Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2024 Sep 27:e202415472. doi: 10.1002/anie.202415472. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Alkynyl amides play crucial roles in organic synthesis in the production of bioactive compounds and valuable heterocycles. Despite numerous studies on their synthesis, challenges persist due to the necessity of harsh or hazardous conditions and the use of costly or unstable reagents. Herein, we present a one-pot method for the synthesis of all three bonds of the alkyne under transition-metal-free conditions. An important feature of this chemistry is the use of readily available feedstock chemicals, such as methyl esters and acetamides. This approach offers efficient access to a wide range of aryl and alkyl alkynyl amides and demonstrates excellent tolerance towards various functional groups in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

Keywords: ; Alkynes; Alkynyl amides; Amides; Cation-pi interactions; Silyl amide base.