Rh-catalyzed cyclization of diynes and enynes initiated by carbonyl-directed activation of aromatic and vinylic C-H bonds

[GRAPHICS] The Rh-catalyzed hydroarylative and hydrovinylative cyclization of diynes with aryl ketones or enones gave monocyclic 1,3-dienes. Enynes also underwent the same reaction and chiral products were obtained with high ee using a chiral Rh catalyst. Carbonyl-directed activation of aromatic and vinylic C-H bonds is likely the initial step in the present transformation.