Ni-Catalyzed C(sp3)-O Arylation of α-Hydroxy Esters

A Negishi cross-coupling of alpha-hydroxy ester derivatives and arylzinc reagents has been developed. This reaction tolerates both primary and secondary C(sp(3))-O alcohol precursors and achieves efficient cross-coupling under Ni catalysis without the need for added external metal reductant, photocatalyst, or additives. The arylation of readily accessible C(sp(3))-O electrophiles in this operationally simple, rapid, and mild reaction provides a complementary way of accessing desirable alpha-aryl ester products.

Automated summary

A Negishi cross-coupling method has been developed for the synthesis of alpha-aryl ester products using alpha-hydroxy ester derivatives and arylzinc reagents. This reaction is efficient, rapid, and mild, providing a complementary way of accessing desirable products.