Stereoselective synthesis of cyclic ethers by intramolecular trapping of dicobalt hexacarbonyl-stabilized propargylic cations

J Org Chem. 2003 Apr 18;68(8):3216-24. doi: 10.1021/jo0340556.

Abstract

The intramolecular attack of a hydroxy group on an exo-biscobalthexacarbonyl propargylic cation provides cyclic ethers with six- to nine-membered rings. The scope and limitations of the methodology are described. The reaction is stereoselective when additional stereocenters are present, providing iterative methodology to access ladder-like cyclic ethers.