The stereoselective formation of bicyclic enamines with bridgehead unsaturation via tandem C-H bond activation/alkenylation/electrocyclization

The Rh-catalyzed C-H activation of alkyne-tethered [alpha],[beta]-unsaturated imines, followed by reaction of the activated intermediate with alkynes, is described. This activation has led to an intermediate that has undergone further thermal, electrocyclization to form strained bicyclic enamines with bridgehead unsaturated.