Ti-catalyzed reformatsky-type coupling between alpha-halo ketones and aldehydes

J Org Chem. 2008 Feb 15;73(4):1616-9. doi: 10.1021/jo702189k. Epub 2008 Jan 12.

Abstract

We describe the first Ti-catalyzed Reformatsky-type coupling between alpha-halo ketones and aldehydes. The reaction affords beta-hydroxy ketones under mild, neutral conditions compatible with ketones and other electrophiles. The catalytic cycle possibly proceeds via bis(cyclopentadienyl)titanium enolates.