Synthesis of Dienamides via Palladium-catalyzed Oxidative N -α,β-Dehydrogenation of Amides.

Enamides and their derivatives are prominent bioactive pharmacophores found in various bioactive molecules. Herein we report a palladium-catalyzed oxidative N -α,β-dehydrogenation of amides to produce a range of enamides with high yields and excellent tolerance toward different functional groups. Mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction involves allylic C(sp 3 )-H activation followed by β-H elimination. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated through late-stage functionalization of bioactive molecules and the synthesis of valuable compounds through product elaboration.