Ruthenium-catalyzed trans-selective hydrostannation of alkynes.

In contrast to all other transition-metal-catalyzed hydrostannation reactions documented in the literature, the addition of Bu3SnH across various types of alkynes proceeds with excellent trans selectivity, provided the reaction is catalyzed by [Cp*Ru]-based complexes. This method is distinguished by a broad substrate scope and a remarkable compatibility with functional groups, including various substituents that would neither survive under the conditions of established Lewis acid mediated trans hydrostannations nor withstand free-radical reactions. In case of unsymmetrical alkynes, a cooperative effect between the proper catalyst and protic functionality in the substrate allows outstanding levels of regioselectivity to be secured as well.