CuX2-mediated [4+2] benzannulation as a new synthetic tool for stereoselective construction of haloaromatic compounds

The CuX2-mediated reaction of enynal units, including ortho-alkynylbenzaldehydes, with alkynes gives a variety of haloaromatic compounds stereoselectively in good to high yields. 2,2′-Binaphthyl skeletons are also readily prepared by the reaction of ortho-alkynylbenzaldehydes and diynes. The method was applied to the synthesis of poly-substituted tetracene derivatives.