Nitrone Cycloadditions of 1,2-Cyclohexadiene

J Am Chem Soc. 2016 Mar 2;138(8):2512-5. doi: 10.1021/jacs.5b13304. Epub 2016 Feb 18.

Abstract

We report the first 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions of 1,2-cyclohexadiene, a rarely exploited strained allene. 1,2-Cyclohexadiene is generated in situ under mild conditions and trapped with nitrones to give isoxazolidine products in synthetically useful yields. The reactions occur regioselectively and exhibit a notable endo preference, thus resulting in the controlled formation of two new bonds and two stereogenic centers. DFT calculations of stepwise and concerted reaction pathways are used to rationalize the observed selectivities. Moreover, the strategic manipulation of nitrone cycloadducts demonstrates the utility of this methodology for the assembly of compounds bearing multiple heterocyclic units. These studies showcase the exploitation of a traditionally avoided reactive intermediate in chemical synthesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Allyl Compounds / chemistry
  • Cycloaddition Reaction
  • Cyclohexenes / chemistry*
  • Heterocyclic Compounds / chemical synthesis*
  • Nitrogen Oxides / chemistry*
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Allyl Compounds
  • Cyclohexenes
  • Heterocyclic Compounds
  • Nitrogen Oxides
  • nitrones