Solvent switchable Pd/DNA catalyst in carbonylative Sonogashira coupling

Palladium catalysts immobilized on DNA (Pd/DNA) were applied for the first time in the carbonylative Sonogashira coupling, at 1 atm of CO. Different alkynones were obtained with a high yield in DMF. In the presence of water, the selectivity completely changed and diaryl alkynes, typical Sonogashira products, were selectively formed. In addition to Pd/DNA, soluble palladium species also participated in the catalytic process. The stability of the catalytic system increased after the addition of DNA excess.