A Bio-Inspired, Catalytic E → Z Isomerization of Activated Olefins

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Abstract
Herein, Nature’s flavin-mediated activation of complex (poly)enes has been translated to a small molecule paradigm culminating in a highly (Z)-selective, catalytic isomerization of activated olefins using (−)-riboflavin (up to 99:1 Z/E). In contrast to the prominent Z → E isomerization of the natural system, it was possible to invert the directionality of the isomerization (E → Z) by simultaneously truncating the retinal scaffold, and introducing a third olefin substituent to augment A1,3-strain upon isomerization. Consequently, conjugation is reduced in the product chromophore leading to a substrate/product combination with discrete photophysical signatures. The operationally simple isomerization protocol has been applied to a variety of enone-derived substrates and showcased in the preparation of the medically relevant 4-substituted coumarin scaffold. A correlation of sensitizer triplet energy (ET) and reaction efficiency, together with the study of additive effects and mechanistic probes, is consistent with a triplet energy transfer mechanism.
Funding Information
  • Verband der Chemischen Industrie
  • Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (EXC 1003, SFB 858)
  • Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster

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