Iodobenzene-Catalyzed Oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane and [4.2.1]Nonane Synthesis via Cascade C-O/C-C Formation

Iodobenzene-catalyzed 1,2-olefin functionalization via C-C and C-O bond formation has been achieved with electron rich aromatic groups and vinylogous esters acting as independent nucleophiles. The reaction provides oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes and [4.2.1]nonanes from commercially available 3-alkoxy cycohexen-2-ones in three steps.