A highly
regio- and diastereoselective method to access cis-2,6-disubstituted dihydropyridinones under mild conditions
by an iridium-catalyzed allylic etherification is reported. cis-2,6-Disubstituted dihydropyridinones are important precursors
for the de novo synthesis of the corresponding piperidine
alkaloids and iminosugars. This strategy features a broad substrate
scope, high yields, and excellent regio- and diastereoselectivities.
A π-allyl-Ir intermediate is involved in the mechanism. The
strong A1,3-strain from the tosyl group may also favor
the formation of cis-products in this transformation.