Work

Copper(II)-catalyzed selective reduction of chalcones using phenylsilane

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A copper-catalyst system for the chemoselective reduction of electronically diverse chalcones under mild reaction conditions is reported here. This straightforward method employs phenylsilane (PhSiH 3 ) as a mild hydride source, 4,5-diazafluoren-9-one (DAFO) as a ligand, and copper(II) acetate as the catalyst. The reduction was successfully applied to a range of chalcone derivatives containing both electron-donating (EDG) and electron-withdrawing (EWG) groups. Under optimized conditions, a broad scope of substrates was explored, yielding products in moderate to good yields. The sustainability of copper catalysis and the ease of applying this catalytic system make it an attractive alternative for selective alkene reductions in targeted organic synthesis. • Copper(II) catalyzed chemoselective reduction of alkenyl unit of chalcones • Phenylsilanes used as gentle reducing agent, with no observed over reduction • A range of chalcones was studied, with resonance & electronic effects near the carbonyl linked to conversion efficiency.

Source: Tetrahedron Letters

DOI: 10.1016/j.tetlet.2025.155567

Authors: Mahshid Attarroshan, Bryan Chacon Vazquez, Caden R. Andrews, Sean L. Stokes, Joseph P. Emerson

Institution: Mississippi State University

Language: English

Topic: Asymmetric Hydrogenation and Catalysis

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,610