Macrolactam Synthesis via Ring-Closing Alkene–Alkene Cross-Coupling Reactions

Reported herein is a practical method for macrolactam synthesis via a Rh­(III)-catalyzed ring closing alkene–alkene cross-coupling reaction. The reaction proceeded via a Rh-catalyzed alkenyl sp2 C–H activation process, which allows access to macrocyclic molecules of different ring sizes. Macrolactams containing a conjugated diene framework could be easily prepared in high chemoselectivities and Z,E stereoselectivities.