Copper-Catalyzed Hydroarylation of Internal Alkynes: Highly Regio- and Diastereoselective Synthesis of 1,1-Diaryl, Trisubstituted Olefins

The copper-catalyzed hydroarylation of internal, unsymmeric alkynes is presented. Trisubstituted alkenes are obtained as single diastereomers in good to excellent yields and excellent regioselectivities. The scope of the reaction is presented with respect to alkyne and aryl iodide coupling partners. Initial mechanistic experiments indicate a hydrocupration event followed by a two-electron oxidative addition/reductive elimination pathway.