Reductive Coupling of Acrylates with Ketones and Ketimines by a Nickel‐Catalyzed Transfer‐Hydrogenative Strategy

Abstract

Nickel‐catalyzed coupling of benzyl acrylates with activated ketones and imines provides γ‐butyrolactones and lactams, respectively. The benzyl alcohol byproduct released during the lactonization/lactamization event is relayed to the next cycle where it serves as the reductant for C−C bond formation. This strategy represents a conceptually unique approach to transfer‐hydrogenative C−C bond formation, thus providing examples of reductive heterocyclizations where hydrogen embedded within an alcohol leaving group facilitates turnover.