Catalytic activity of cycloaurated complexes in the addition of 2-methylfuran to methyl vinyl ketone

Cycloaurated gold(III) complexes derived from cycloaurated iminophosphorane, triphenylphosphine sulfide or selenide, or pyridylsulfonamide ligands have been assessed for their catalytic activity in the addition of 2-methylfuran to methyl vinyl ketone. Addition of AgBF4 was generally needed for high activity, although those with coordinated atoms of high trans influence showed some activity in the absence of added Ag+. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.