Regioselective Hydroformylation of Allylic Alcohols

A highly regioselective hydroformylation of allylic alcohols is reported toward the synthesis of p-hydroxy-acid and aldehyde products. The selectivity is achieved through the use of a ligand that reversibly binds to alcohols in situ, allowing for a directed hydroformylation to occur. The application to trisubstituted olefins was also demonstrated, which yields a single diastereomer product consistent with a stereospecific addition of CO and hydrogen.