The first DMAP-mediated palladium-free Tsuji–Trost-type reaction of cyclic and acyclic Baylis–Hillman alcohols with active methylene compounds

Direct allylic substitution of cyclic Baylis–Hillman alcohols with active methylene compounds under modified Taber’s conditions (DMAP, toluene, reflux, 4 Å molecular sieves), with no Pd catalysts/activating agents, as is usually required for the process, affords the C-allylation products in moderate to good yields.