Pd(II)-Catalyzed Intramolecular 1,2-Aminoalkylation of Conjugated 1,3-Dienes for the Synthesis of Pyrrolizidines

A palladium(II)-catalyzed tandem cyclization reaction involving an intramolecular 1,2-aminoalkylation of N-4,6-dienyl beta-keto amides has been developed. This process provides an efficient method for the rapid assembly of pyrrolizidines starting from linear substrates in moderate to good yields and high to excellent diastereoselectivities.