Yb(OTf)3-catalyzed propargylation and allenylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl derivatives with propargylic alcohols: one-pot synthesis of multi-substituted furocoumarin

A highly efficient and mild Lewis acid-catalyzed coupling reaction of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds with propargylic alcohols has been established. Selective propargylation or allenylation products are obtained depending on the nature of propargylic alcohols. In addition, catalytic quantities of Yb(OTf)3 can also effectively promote the propargylation and allylation of 4-hydroxycoumarins at the 3-position. By applying this reaction as the key step, a multi-substituted furocoumarin can easily be synthesized in a one-pot procedure. The advantages of this method are broad scope, mild conditions, and easy handling since water is the only side product.