Multifunctionalization of Unactivated Cyclic Ketones via Synergistic Catalysis of Copper and Diarylamine: Access to Cyclic α-Enaminone.

A multifunctionalization of unactivated cyclic ketones via synergistic catalysis of copper and diarylamine for the direct synthesis of cyclic α-enaminone is reported for the first time. This reaction goes through oxidative α-amination, followed by a desaturation, and features mild reaction conditions, a broad substrate scope, and great functional group tolerance.