Manganese-catalyzed transfer semihydrogenation of internal alkynes to E-alkenes with iPrOH as hydrogen source

The Mn-catalyzed transfer semihydrogenation of internal alkynes to E -alkenes is reported herein, along with Mn-catalyzed hydration of α-keto alkynes. Mechanistic studies displayed an asymmetrical Mn-hydride species performing the catalytic turnover.