Desymmetrization of meso-dienyne by asymmetric Pauson-Khand type reaction catalysts.

Desymmetrization of the meso dienynes, such as propargyl 1-vinylallyl N-tosylamides (1a-c) and propargyl 1-vinylallyl ethers (1d-e), by asymmetric Pauson-Khand type reaction catalysts was studied. The corresponding vinyl substituted bicyclic pentenones (2 and 3) were obtained with high diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity.