Synthesis 2016; 48(02): 161-183
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1560515
review
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Synthesis of Ynones and Recent Application in Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Reactions

Rachel E. Whittaker
a   Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, 101 E 24th St, A5300, Austin, TX 78712, USA   Email: gbdong@cm.utexas.edu
,
Alpay Dermenci
b   Pfizer Inc., Eastern Point Road, Groton, CT 06340, USA
,
Guangbin Dong*
a   Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, 101 E 24th St, A5300, Austin, TX 78712, USA   Email: gbdong@cm.utexas.edu
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 25 August 2015

Accepted after revision: 17 September 2015

Publication Date:
04 November 2015 (online)


Abstract

α,β-Acetylenic ketones (ynones) are found in important bioactive molecules and materials. They are also useful precursors to valuable heterocycles. In this review, methods of ynone preparation are described. Additionally, transition-metal-catalyzed methodologies utilizing ynones are introduced. Lastly, examples of these methodologies in the total synthesis of complex molecules are highlighted. Although they have been known for over 100 years, research over the past three decades has greatly expanded the understanding of ynone reactivity. This unique reactivity makes the α,β-acetylenic ketone a useful moiety with untapped potential.

1 Introduction

2 Historical Perspective

3 Ynone Preparation

3.1 Distinct Metal Acetylides

3.2 Carbonylative Cross-Couplings

3.3 Oxidative Methods

4 Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Reactions of Ynones

4.1 Cyclizations

4.2 Miscellaneous Reactions

4.3 Ynones in Total Synthesis

5 Summary and Outlook