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

Abstract

A Negishi cross-coupling of α-hydroxy ester derivatives and arylzinc reagents has been developed. This reaction tolerates both primary and secondary C(sp3)–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(sp3)–O electrophiles in this operationally simple, rapid, and mild reaction provides a complementary way of accessing desirable α-aryl ester products.