Asymmetric Ni(II)/Cr(II)-mediated coupling reaction: stoichiometric process

[reaction: see text] Via an X-ray analysis, the sulfonamide bearing R(1) = i-Pr, R(2) = Me, and R(3) = Me is shown to be a tridentate ligand to a Cr(III) salt. This class of ligands, represented by R(1) = t-Bu, R(2) = 2-naphthyl, and R(3) = Me, is effective to achieve an asymmetric Ni/Cr-mediated coupling reaction and, with the C14-C38 segment of halichondrins, its synthetic potential has been demonstrated. A possible mechanism is suggested for the process.