Fast diastereoselective Baylis–Hillman reaction by nitroalkenes: synthesis of di- and triene derivatives

The Baylis–Hillman reaction is performed using nitroalkenes as activated alkenes, ethyl-2-bromomethylacrylate as electrophilic acceptor and DBU as catalyst base. Nitro dienes are obtained in good yields and very short reaction times. Moreover, starting from appropriate nitroalkenes it is possible to realize one pot the synthesis of trienic systems.