Control of regioselectivity in Pd(0)-catalyzed coupling-cyclization reaction of 2-(2',3'-allenyl)malonates with organic halides.

The regioselectivity in the Pd(0)-catalyzed coupling-cyclization of 2-(2',3'-allenyl)malonates with organic halides is determined by the steric and electronic effects of both substrates. By deliberate control of the reaction conditions, the regioselectivity of this reaction can be tuned. With conditions A and B, the reaction afforded vinylic cyclopropane derivatives, while with conditions C and D, the reaction afforded cyclopentene derivatives in a highly selective manner. Under similar conditions, 1-alkenyl halides tend to form more three-membered cyclic products. The increased steric hindrance at the 2'-position of the allene moiety and aryl halides favors the formation of five-membered cyclic products. The regioselectivity of the reaction may be explained by the comparison of the relative stabilities of syn- and anti-type pi-allyl palladium intermediates.