Efficient Transformation of Methyl Propargyl Ethers into α,β-Unsaturated Ketones

Abstract

Methyl propargyl ethers, obtained from carbonyl compounds by successive treatment with an acetylide and MeI, were easily converted to the corresponding α,β-unsaturated ketone by regioselective hydration of acetylenic moiety followed by elimination of methanol under the catalytic action of Au(III).