Catalytic Formation of α-Aryl Ketones by C-H Functionalization with Cyclic Alkenyl Carbonates and One-Pot Synthesis of Isocoumarins

We report here a method for direct catalytic introduction of simple α-acylalkyl groups via rhodium-catalyzed C-H functionalization with cyclic alkenyl carbonates, synthetic equivalents to enolates bearing leaving groups. The reaction proceeded smoothly without using bases to give α-aryl ketones in high yields. Various nitrogen-containing aromatic rings and amide groups serve as directing groups. 3-Substituted isocoumarins can also be prepared by one-pot C-H functionalization/cyclization.