“…In order to achieve C-2 and/or C-3 functionalization of azepanes, which would provide access to the majority of the substitution patterns resident in the alkaloids shown in Figure 1 , we reasoned that cross-coupling offered the best approach. Previously, Occhiato, Coudert, and Sulikowski have reported isolated examples of cross-couplings of vinyl triflate ( I , Figure 2 , top), 7 vinyl phosphate ( II ), 9 and α-iodo enecarbarmate ( III ), 13 respectively, with metalated coupling partners. 7 The instability of I , II , and III , as noted by the authors, 7 , 13 likely necessitated the use of highly reactive metalated cross-coupling partners.…”