Direct Synthesis of Chalcones from Anilides with Phenyl Vinyl Ketones by Oxidative Coupling Through C-H Bond Activation.

A novel approach for synthesizing chalcones by Pd-catalyzed oxidative coupling is described. This is the first report of the efficient coupling reaction of acetanilides with phenyl vinyl ketones under mild conditions. Selective C-H activation occurred next to the acetamide group to afford 2-aminochalcone derivatives. The reaction proceeded under an O2 atmosphere without any chemical co-oxidants.