Rh(i)-Catalyzed intramolecular [2 + 2 + 1] cycloaddition of diynes with the N-terminal of the diazo group

Abstract

A new type of Rh(I)-catalyzed intramolecular [2 + 2 + 1] cycloaddition of diynes and the N-terminal of a diazo moiety is reported. This study is the first attempt to combine oxidative cyclometallation with carbene migratory insertion. This reaction is suggested to involve the initial oxidative cyclometallation, followed by migratory nitrogen insertion and reductive elimination.