Design and application of α-ketothioesters as 1,2-dicarbonyl-forming reagents

Abstract

Conventionally, 1,2-dicarbonyl compounds are prepared via α-keto acyl chlorides. Here, the authors report a metal-free synthesis of α-ketothioester reagents via the combination of an α-hydroxyl ketone, elemental sulfur and a benzyl halide, which are used for N- or C-dicarbonyl bond formation.