Synthesis of α-Amino Amides via N,O-Acetals Derived from Weinreb Amides

An easy and straightforward synthesis of alpha-amino amides via a base-mediated rearrangement of modified Weinreb amides into N,O-acetals is presented. Subsequent arylation, alkylation, alkenylation, or alkynylation of this intermediate affords the corresponding alpha-amino amides in excellent yields. Furthermore, a more generalized protocol for the alpha-arylation of Weinreb amides lacking an alpha-amino moiety is also discussed.