Stereoselective preparation of functionalized acyclic alkenylmagnesium reagents using i-PrMgCl.LiCl.

Acyclic functionalized alkenyl iodides are converted with high stereoselectivity to the corresponding functionalized alkenylmagnesium derivatives by the reaction with i-PrMgCl.LiCl between -40 and -20 degrees C. Functional groups such as a nitrile, chloride, iodide, and ester are readily tolerated. The conversion of an alkenyl iodide bearing a keto group to the corresponding silylated cyanohydrin allows preparation of the corresponding Grignard reagent affording, after acylation and deprotection, unsaturated 1,4-diketones.