Pd-Catalyzed oxidative isomerization of propargylic acetates: highly efficient access to α-acetoxyenones via alkenyl Csp(2)-O bond-forming reductive elimination from Pd(IV).

A Pd(ii)/(iv)-catalyzed oxidative isomerization of propargylic acetates developed for the synthesis of polysubstituted alkenyl acetates is described. The reductive elimination of alkenyl Csp(2)-OAc bonds from Pd(IV) intermediates is achieved. Mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction mechanism consists of trans acetoxypalladation of a triple bond, isomerization, oxidative addition with PhI(OAc)2 and alkenyl C-OAc bond reductive elimination.