Dual Functionalization of α‐Monoboryl Carbanions through Deoxygenative Enolization with Carboxylic Acids

Abstract A dual functionalization of 1,1‐diborylalkanes through deoxygenative enolization with carboxylic acids was developed. 1,1‐Diborylalkanes were activated by MeLi to generate α‐monoboryl carbanions. In situ IR spectroscopy indicated an interaction between carboxylic acid and 1,1‐diborylalkane before addition of the activation reagent. Release of the active α‐monoboryl carbanion from the masked form was necessary for its reaction with carboxylate to afford enolate species. Electrophilic trapping of enolate species with various electrophiles achieved dual functionalization of 1,1‐diborylalkanes to afford a variety of α‐mono, di‐, and tri‐substituted ketones.