One-step RhCl3-catalyzed deprotection of acyclic N-allyl amides.

A convenient one-step RhCl3-catalyzed deprotection of acyclic N-allyl amides is described. Preliminary mechanistic studies reveal that the key to the success of the one-step deprotection process is the dual function of RhCl3 in alcohol solvents. Reaction of RhCl3 with n-PrOH not only provides an active rhodium hydride species to catalyze isomerization of N-allyl amides to corresponding enamides but also generates a crucial catalytic amount of HCl to convert the enamides to deallylated amides through N,O-acetal exchange.