Straightforward synthesis of alpha,beta-unsaturated thioesters via ruthenium-catalyzed olefin cross-metathesis with thioacrylate.

The cross-metathesis reaction of S-ethyl thioacrylate with a variety of olefins is effectively catalyzed by using a ruthenium benzylidene olefin metathesis catalyst. This reaction provides a convenient and versatile route to substituted alpha,beta-unsaturated thioesters, key building blocks in organic synthesis.