Combined C-H functionalization/Cope rearrangement with vinyl ethers as a surrogate for the vinylogous Mukaiyama aldol reaction.

Vinyl ethers selectively undergo the combined C-H functionalization/Cope rearrangement reaction via an s-cis/boat transition state. With chiral dirhodium catalysts, products are generated in a highly diastereoselective and enantioselective fashion. This reaction can be considered as a surrogate to the traditional vinylogous Mukaiyama aldol reaction. Effective kinetic resolution has been achieved, leading to the recovery of a cyclic vinyl ether with axial chirality of high enantiomeric purity.