The sequential Michael addition/retro-Claisen condensation of 1,3-diarylpropan-1,3-diones with nitrostyrenes is described. 4-Nitro-1,3-diarylbutan-1-ones were efficiently synthesized in good to high yield under mild, transition-metal-free condition. This one-step method involving sequential carbon-carbon bond formation and cleavage provides a good alternative to the synthesis of various $$\gamma $$ γ -nitro ketones.
Graphical abstract
The sequential Michael addition/retro-Claisen condensation of 1,3-diarylpropan-1,3-diones with nitrostyrenes is described. 4-Nitro-1,3-diarylbutan-1-ones were efficiently synthesized in good to high yield under mild and transition-metal-free condition.