Application of a C-C Bond-Forming Conjugate Addition Reaction in Asymmetric Dearomatization of β-Naphthols.

A C-C bond-forming conjugate reaction was successfully applied to the enantioselective dearomatization of β-naphthols. A C(sp2)-C(sp3) bond is formed by using propargylic ketones as reactive partners. Good to excellent Z/E ratios and ee values were obtained by employing an in situ generated magnesium catalyst. Further transformations of the Z-configured C-C double bond in the products were achieved under mild reaction conditions. Moreover, the stereocontrolling element of this magnesium-catalyzed dearomatization reaction was explored by computational chemistry.