Three-Component Reaction through Rh(III)-Catalyzed Strain Release of Bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes

Herein, we present a three-component
reaction through
Rh(III)-catalyzed
strain release of bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes (BCBs) to synthesize substituted
acrylamides. This protocol represents the first example of a nucleophilic
attack on the Rh(V) nitrenoid complex generated by the coupling of
phenoxyacetamides and strained BCBs. The reaction proceeds under mild
conditions and demonstrates broad compatibility with various functional
groups on both phenoxyacetamides and nucleophiles, affording valuable
substituted acrylamides. Furthermore, the products can be further
transformed into important building blocks for synthesis. Preliminary
mechanistic studies support the proposed catalytic cycle.