Cobalt-catalyzed oxidative cyclization of gem-disubstituted conjugated alkenols

Aryl gem-disubstituted conjugated alkenols underwent oxidative cyclization affording 2,5,5-trisubstituted tetrahydrofurans in reasonable yields and good diastereoselectivities using the reductive termination variation of the Mukaiyama aerobic oxidative reaction. Under oxidative termination, the same alkenols produced diols and ketonic by-products via the double hydration and beta-scission competing pathways. Furthermore, the differences in alkenol reactivity under the reductive and oxidative termination conditions were investigated. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.