Leo A. Paquette

Bio: Leo A. Paquette is an academic researcher from Ohio State University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Ring (chemistry) & Total synthesis. The author has an hindex of 36, co-authored 484 publications receiving 6021 citations. Previous affiliations of Leo A. Paquette include Heidelberg University.

9,10-Dimethylenetricyclo(5.3.0.02,8)deca-3,5-diene.

Abstract: The synthesis of the title compound (VIII) via the intermediate diol (V) is performed as shown in the reaction scheme.

Studies Directed to the Synthesis of the Unusual Cardiotoxic Agent Kalmanol. Enantioselective Construction of the Advanced Tetracyclic 7- Oxy-5,6-dideoxy Congener.

Abstract: The first synthesis of a highly functionalized B-homo-C-nor grayanotoxin closely related to kalmanol is reported. An enantiocontrolled route to the diquinane sector was first developed from (4R)-(+)-tert-butyldimethylsiloxycyclopentenone by taking advantage of the Michael acceptor properties of this enone and an α,β-unsaturated ester subsequently derived from it, viz., 4 → 7 → 8. These experiments formed the basis for more advanced substitution of the bicyclo[3.3.0]octane core. In fact, ready access was gained to the α-hydroxy esters 24−27. In these advanced intermediates, it is imperative that the acetyl and carbomethoxy groups bear a trans 1,3-relationship. The neighboring OR substituent should preferably be larger than methoxy in order to guarantee 100% facial selectivity during the ensuing capture by 1 (as its lithiated derivative). This condensation leads unidirectionally to tricyclic lactones represented by 30 and 31 and sets the stage for implementation of sequential Tebbe olefination and Claisen r...

Ring Expansion by Tandem Double Tebbe‐Claisen Technology.

Abstract: 2-Cyclohexenone rings that form part of a larger structural assembly are amenable to peracid oxidation with formation of an epoxy lactone. These intermediates are readily transformed under acidic, basic, or neutral conditions to ring-contracted aldehydo lactones, which are then subjected to condensation with a slight excess of Tebbe reagent. These conditions result in methylenation of carbonyl groups and set the stage for operation of a Claisen rearrangement. When the latter is catalyzed by Tribal, the sigmatropic process occurs at room temperature. With systems typified by 17 and 24, the isomerization is complete within 15 min. The presence of a proximate angular methyl group as in 9b, 29, and 37 exerts a retarding kinetic effect. In such examples, a period of 6 h is required to achieve completion. Swern oxidation completes the conversion to the 4-cyclooctenones, where the two carbons stemming from the Tebbe reagent are inserted between the original carbonyl and α-olefinic carbons. The overall process is...

C-H bond functionalization: emerging synthetic tools for natural products and pharmaceuticals

Abstract: The direct functionalization of C-H bonds in organic compounds has recently emerged as a powerful and ideal method for the formation of carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bonds. This Review provides an overview of C-H bond functionalization strategies for the rapid synthesis of biologically active compounds such as natural products and pharmaceutical targets.

Palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions in total synthesis.

Abstract: In studying the evolution of organic chemistry and grasping its essence, one comes quickly to the conclusion that no other type of reaction plays as large a role in shaping this domain of science than carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions. The Grignard, Diels-Alder, and Wittig reactions are but three prominent examples of such processes, and are among those which have undeniably exercised decisive roles in the last century in the emergence of chemical synthesis as we know it today. In the last quarter of the 20th century, a new family of carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions based on transition-metal catalysts evolved as powerful tools in synthesis. Among them, the palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions are the most prominent. In this Review, highlights of a number of selected syntheses are discussed. The examples chosen demonstrate the enormous power of these processes in the art of total synthesis and underscore their future potential in chemical synthesis.

Organic Reactions in Aqueous Media with a Focus on Carbon−Carbon Bond Formations: A Decade Update

Abstract: 4.2.8. Reductive Coupling 3109 5. Reaction of Aromatic Compounds 3110 5.1. Electrophilic Substitutions 3110 5.2. Radical Substitution 3111 5.3. Oxidative Coupling 3111 5.4. Photochemical Reactions 3111 6. Reaction of Carbonyl Compounds 3111 6.1. Nucleophilic Additions 3111 6.1.1. Allylation 3111 6.1.2. Propargylation 3120 6.1.3. Benzylation 3121 6.1.4. Arylation/Vinylation 3121 6.1.5. Alkynylation 3121 6.1.6. Alkylation 3121 6.1.7. Reformatsky-Type Reaction 3122 6.1.8. Direct Aldol Reaction 3122 6.1.9. Mukaiyama Aldol Reaction 3124 6.1.10. Hydrogen Cyanide Addition 3125 6.2. Pinacol Coupling 3126 6.3. Wittig Reactions 3126 7. Reaction of R,â-Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds 3127

Cascade reactions in total synthesis.

Abstract: The design and implementation of cascade reactions is a challenging facet of organic chemistry, yet one that can impart striking novelty, elegance, and efficiency to synthetic strategies. The application of cascade reactions to natural products synthesis represents a particularly demanding task, but the results can be both stunning and instructive. This Review highlights selected examples of cascade reactions in total synthesis, with particular emphasis on recent applications therein. The examples discussed herein illustrate the power of these processes in the construction of complex molecules and underscore their future potential in chemical synthesis.