An easy approach to α,β-unsaturated δ-thiolactams via a RCM and thionation one-pot procedure

An easy approach to mono- and bicyclic derivatives of 5,6-dihydro-1H-pyridine-2-thione via a one-pot ring closing metathesis (RCM) of dialkenoic amides and thionation using Lawesson’s reagent, followed by isomerization of the 3,6-dihydro-isomer (if necessary), is described. The appreciable differences in the reactivity of diallylic amides in RCM reactions are discussed.