Regioselective SN′ allylic substitution versus 1,4-addition: Synthesis of α-substituted β,γ-unsaturated esters

The reaction of the higher order organocuprate reagents R₂Cu(CN)Li₂-BF₃ with γ-bromo α,β-unsaturated esters gives with very high selectivity α-substituted β,γ-unsaturated esters arising from a SN′ allylic substitution. This reaction allows an easy access to α-silyl β,γ-unsaturated esters.