Rh(III)-Catalyzed meta-C–H Alkenylation with Alkynes

Rh(III)-catalyzed meta-C–H functionalization reactions are still rare. Herein, we report the first example of Rh(III)-catalyzed meta-C–H alkenylation with disubstituted alkynes directed by a U-shaped nitrile template. Exclusive regio-selectivity has been achieved using unsymmetrical aryl and alkyl-disubstituted alkynes to afford synthetically valuable trisubstituted olefins. Propargyl alcohols are also compatible, affording complex allylic alcohols. Notably, transition metal-catalyzed meta-alkenylation with alkynes has not been successful with Pd catalysts.