Copper-free synthesis of skipped diynes via cross-coupling reactions of alkynylalanes with propargylic electrophiles.

ABSTRACT

Alkynylalanes provide a new, copper-free route to skipped diynes when combined with propargylic electrophiles bearing an aluminum-complexing leaving group. The reaction is mild, efficient, and, in contrast to copper-mediated methods, highly regioselective. [reaction see text]