Gold-catalyzed homogeneous oxidative C-O bond formation: efficient synthesis of 1-benzoxyvinyl ketones.

A novel Au-catalyzed homogeneous oxidative C-O bond-forming reaction involving a Au(I)/Au(III) catalytic cycle is developed. Mechanistic studies reveal the involvement of a unique intramolecular carboxy migration. From readily available propargylic benzoates, this chemistry allows efficient access to captodative alkenes and dienones, demonstrating the synthetic potential of incorporating Au(I)/Au(III) catalytic cycles into contemporary Au chemistry. The unique reactivity and the mechanistic insights would help open a new research area in gold catalysis.