Stereoselective direct copper-catalyzed alkenylation of oxazoles with bromoalkenes

A copper-catalyzed direct alkenylation of oxazoles with bromoalkenes has been developed. The method is both regio- and stereoselective and tolerates a variety of functional groups. A wide range of 2-E-vinyl-substituted oxazoles were obtained in high yields including the highly fluorescent alkaloid annuloline.