Asymmetric Henry reaction catalyzed by C2-symmetric tridentate bis(oxazoline) and bis(thiazoline) complexes: metal-controlled reversal of enantioselectivity

[reaction: see text] C(2)-symmetric tridentate bis(oxazoline) and bis(thiazoline) ligands with a diphenylamine backbone have been investigated in the catalytic asymmetric Henry reaction of alpha-keto esters with different Lewis acids. Their Cu(OTf)(2) complexes furnished S enantiomers, while Et(2)Zn complexes afforded R enantiomers, both of them with higher enantioselectivities (up to 85% ee). Reversal of enantioselectivity in asymmetric Henry reactions was achieved with the same chiral ligand by changing the Lewis acid center from Cu(II) to Zn(II). The results show that the NH group in C(2)-symmetric tridentate chiral ligands plays a very important role in controlling both the yields and enantiofacial selectivity of the Henry products.     

Reactivity and stability of platinum(II) formyl complexes based on PCP-type ligands. The significance of sterics

The synthesis and characterization of several Pt(ii) complexes, including formyl complexes, based on the PCP-type pincer ligands C(6)H(4)[CH(2)P(iPr)(2)](2) ((iPr)PCP) and C(6)H(4)[CH(2)P(tBu)(2)](2) ((tBu)PCP) are described. The chloride complex ((iPr)PCP)PtCl (6) and the unsaturated cationic complexes [(PCP)Pt](+)X(-) (X = OTf(-), BF(4)(-)) (1, 7), based on both PCP ligands, were prepared and the latter reacted with carbon monoxide to give the corresponding cationic carbonyl complexes [(PCP)Pt(CO)](+)X(-) (X = OTf(-), BF(4)(-)) (2, 8a). Hydride nucleophilic attack on both carbonyl complexes resulted in rare neutral platinum formyl complexes ((iPr)PCP)Pt(CHO) (3) and ((tBu)PCP)Pt(CHO) (9). Complex 3 undergoes decarbonylation to the corresponding hydride complex within hours at room temperature, while the bulkier complex 9 is more stable and undergoes complete decarbonylation only after 3-4 d. This observation demonstrates the very significant steric effect of the ligand on stabilization of the corresponding formyl complexes. Reaction of complex 9 with triflic acid resulted in the carbonyl complex [((tBu)PCP)Pt(CO)](+) OTf(-) (8b) with liberation of H(2), an unusual transformation for a metal formyl. Reaction with methyl triflate resulted in the Fischer carbene-type complex, the methoxy-methylidene [((tBu)PCP)Pt(CHOCH(3))](+)OTf(-) (11). The X-ray structures of complexes 2, 6, 8a and 11 were determined.     

Chiral cyanide-bridged Cr(III)-Mn(III) heterobimetallic chains based on [(Tp)Cr(CN)3]-: synthesis, structures, and magnetic properties

By the reactions of Mn(III) Schiff-base complexes with the tricyanometalate building block, [(Tp)Cr(CN)(3)](-) (Tp = Tris(pyrazolyl) hydroborate), two couples of enantiomerically pure chiral cyano-bridged heterobimetallic one-dimensional (1D) chain complexes, [Mn((R,R)-Salcy)Cr(Tp)(CN)(3)·1/4H(2)O·1/2CH(2)Cl(2)](n) (1) and [Mn((S,S)-Salcy)Cr(Tp)(CN)(3)·1/4H(2)O·1/2CH(2)Cl(2)](n) (2) (Salcy = N,N'-(1,2-cyclohexanediylethylene)bis(salicylideneiminato) dianion), [Mn((R,R)-Salphen)Cr(Tp)(CN)(3)](n) (3) and [Mn((S,S)-Salphen)Cr(Tp)(CN)(3)](n) (4) (Salphen = N,N'-1,2-diphenylethylene-bis(salicylideneiminato) dianion), have been successfully synthesized. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra confirm the enantiomeric nature of the optically active complexes. Structural analyses reveal the formation of neutral cyano-bridged zigzag single chains in 1 and 2, and neutral cyano-bridged zigzag double chains in 3 and 4. Magnetic studies show that antiferromagnetic couplings are operative between Cr(III) and Mn(III) centers bridged by cyanide. Complexes 1 and 2 are the rare examples of chiral ferrimagnets; while complexes 3 and 4 exhibit a coexistence of chirality and spin-glass behavior in a 1D chain.     

Multinuclear platinum(II)-amine complexes containing bis(aminopropyl)dicarba-closo-dodecaborane(12) ligands

Treatment of the bridging bidentate 1,Z-bis(aminopropyl)-1,Z-dicarba-closo-dodecaborane(12)(1,Z-bis(aminopropyl)-1,Z-carborane) ligands of the type 1,Z-[H(2)N(CH(2))(3)](2)-1,Z-C(2)B(10)H(10)(L(1), Z= 7, 5) or (L(2), Z= 12, 6) with two equivalents of trans-[PtClI(2)(NH(3))](-), followed by halogen ligand metathesis with AgOTf and HCl((aq)) afforded the novel diplatinum(II)-amine species cis-[[PtCl(2)(NH(3))](2)L(n)](7(n= 1) or 8(n= 2), respectively). Similarly, the reaction of L(1) or L(2) with the labile trans-[PtCl(dmf)(NH(3))(2)](+) afforded trans-[[PtCl(NH(3))(2)](2)L(n)](OTf)(2)(9(n= 1) or 10(n= 2), respectively) in good yield and purity. However, isolation of the analogous 1,2-carborane complexes was not possible owing to decomposition reactions that led to extensive degradation of the carborane cage and reduction of the metal centre. The mixed dinuclear complex [cis-[PtCl(2)(NH(3))]-L(1)-trans-[PtCl(NH(3))(2)]]OTf (19) was prepared by treatment of the Boc-protected amine ligand 1-[(Boc)(2)N(CH(2))(3)]-7-[H(2)N(CH(2))(3)]-1,7-C(2)B(10)H(10)(L(3), 15) with trans-[PtCl(dmf)(NH(3))(2)](+) to yield trans-[PtCl(NH(3))(2)L(3)]OTf (16), followed by acid deprotection of the pendant amine group, complexation with trans-[PtClI(2)(NH(3))](-), and halogen ligand metathesis using AgOTf and HCl((aq)). A novel trinuclear species containing 5 was prepared by the addition of two equivalents of 15 to the labile precursor cis-[Pt(dmf)(2)(NH(3))(2)](2+) followed by acid deprotection of the pendant amine groups. Further complexation with two equivalents of trans-[PtClI(2)(NH(3))](-) followed by halogen ligand metathesis using AgOTf and HCl((aq)) afforded the triplatinum(II)-amine species [cis-[Pt(NH(3))(2)(L(1))(2)]-cis-[PtCl(2)(NH(3))](2)](OTf)(2)(23). Complexes 7-10, 19 and 23 represent the first examples of multinuclear platinum(ii)-amine derivatives containing carborane cages. Preliminary in vitro cytotoxicity studies for selected complexes are also reported.     

Novel intramolecular cyclopropanation reaction of unsaturated beta-keto esters

[reaction: see text] Fused cyclopropane beta-keto esters are versatile intermediates for the synthesis of many biologically active natural products. Here we report a new intramolecular cyclopropanation reaction of unsaturated beta-keto esters. In the presence of I(2), Et(3)N, and Lewis acids such as Mg(ClO(4))(2) and Yb(OTf)(3), beta-keto esters 1 bearing various olefin substituents were transformed to fused cyclopropanes 2 in a highly stereospecific manner with moderate to good yields. The mechanism of the reaction was also investigated.     

Evidence for Cu-O2 intermediates in superoxide oxidations by biomimetic copper(II) complexes

The mechanism by which [Cu(II)(L)](OTf)2 and [Cu(II)N3(L)](OTf) (L = TEPA: tris(2-pyridylethyl)amine or TMPA: tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine; OTf = trifluoromethanesulfonate) react with superoxide (O2*-) to form [Cu(I)(L)](OTf) and O2 is described. Evidence for a CuO2 intermediate is presented based on stopped-flow experiments and competitive oxygen (18O) kinetic isotope effects on the bimolecular reactions of (16,16)O2*- and (18,16)O2*- ((16,16)k/(18,16)k). The (16,16)k/(18,16)k fall within a narrow range from 0.9836 +/- 0.0043 to 0.9886 +/- 0.0078 for reactions of copper(II) complexes with different coordination geometries and redox potentials that span a 0.67 V range. The results are inconsistent with a mechanism that involves either rate-determining O2*- binding or one-step electron transfer. Rather a mechanism involving formation of a CuO2 intermediate prior to the loss of O2 in the rate-determining step is proposed. Calculations of similar inverse isotope effects, using stretching frequencies of CuO2 adducts generated from copper(I) complexes and O2, suggest that the intermediate has a superoxo structure. The use of 18O isotope effects to relate activated oxygen intermediates in enzymes to those derived from inorganic compounds is discussed.     

Coordination of methyl coenzyme M and coenzyme M at divalent and trivalent nickel cyclams: model studies of methyl coenzyme M reductase active site

Divalent and trivalent nickel complexes of 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane, denoted as cyclam hereafter, coordinated by methyl coenzyme M (MeSCoM(-)) and coenzyme M (HSCoM(-)) have been synthesized in the course our model studies of methyl coenzyme M reductase (MCR). The divalent nickel complexes Ni(cyclam)(RSCoM)(2) (R = Me, H) have two trans-disposed RSCoM(-) ligands at the nickel(II) center as sulfonates, and thus, the nickels have an octahedral coordination. The SCoM(2-) adduct Ni(cyclam)(SCoM) was also synthesized, in which the SCoM(2-) ligand chelates the nickel via the thiolate sulfur and a sulfonate oxygen. The trivalent MeSCoM adduct [Ni(cyclam)(MeSCoM)(2)](OTf) was synthesized by treatment of [Ni(cyclam)(NCCH(3))(2)](OTf)(3) with ((n)Bu(4)N)[MeSCoM]. A similar reaction with ((n)Bu(4)N)[HSCoM] did not afford the corresponding trivalent HSCoM(-) adduct, but rather the divalent nickel complex polymer [-Ni(II)(cyclam)(CoMSSCoM)-](n) was obtained, in which the terminal thiol of HSCoM(-) was oxidized to the disulfide (CoMSSCoM)(2-) by the Ni(III) center.     

Change in spin state and enhancement of redox reactivity of photoexcited states of aromatic carbonyl compounds by complexation with metal ion salts acting as Lewis acids. Lewis acid-catalyzed photoaddition of benzyltrimethylsilane and tetramethyltin via photoinduced electron transfer

The lowest excited state of aromatic carbonyl compounds (naphthaldehydes, acetonaphthones, and 10-methylacridone) is changed from the n,pi triplet to the pi,pi singlet which becomes lower in energy than the n,pi triplet by the complexation with metal ions such as Mg(ClO(4))(2) and Sc(OTf)(3) (OTf = triflate), which act as Lewis acids. Remarkable positive shifts of the one-electron reduction potentials of the singlet excited states of the Lewis acid-carbonyl complexes (e.g., 1.3 V for the 1-naphthaldehyde-Sc(OTf)(3) complex) as compared to those of the triplet excited states of uncomplexed carbonyl compounds result in a significant increase in the redox reactivity of the Lewis acid complexes vs uncomplexed carbonyl compounds in the photoinduced electron-transfer reactions. Such enhancement of the redox reactivity of the Lewis acid complexes leads to the efficient C-C bond formation between benzyltrimethylsilane and aromatic carbonyl compounds via the Lewis-acid-promoted photoinduced electron transfer. The quantum yield determinations, the fluorescence quenching, and direct detection of the reaction intermediates by means of laser flash photolysis experiments indicate that the Lewis acid-catalyzed photoaddition reactions proceed via photoinduced electron transfer from benzyltrimethylsilane to the singlet excited states of Lewis acid-carbonyl complexes.     

Synthesis and characterization of Cu(2)(I,I), Cu(2)(I,II), and Cu(2)(II,II) compounds supported by two phthalazine-based ligands: influence of a hydrophobic pocket

The copper coordination chemistry of two phthalazine-based ligands of differing steric bulk was investigated. A family of dinuclear complexes were prepared from reactions of [Cu(2)(bdptz)(MeCN)(2)](OTf)(2), 1(OTf)(2), where bdptz = 1,4-bis(2,2'-dipyridylmethyl)phthalazine. Treatment of 1(OTf)(2) with NaO(2)CCH(3) afforded the class I mixed-valent compound [Cu(2)(bdptz)(2)](OTf)(3), 2(OTf)(3), by disproportionation of Cu(I). Compound 2(OTf)(3) displays an electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum, with g( parallel ) = 2.25 (A( parallel ) = 169 G) and g( perpendicular ) = 2.06, and exhibits a reversible redox wave at -452 mV versus Cp(2)Fe(+)/Cp(2)Fe. The complex [Cu(2)(bdptz)(micro-OH)(MeCN)(2)](OTf)(3), 3(OTf)(3), was prepared by chemical oxidation of 1 with AgOTf, and exposure of 1 to dioxygen afforded [Cu(2)(bdptz)(micro-OH)(2)](2)(OTs)(4), 4(OTs)(4), which can also be obtained directly from [Cu(H(2)O)(6)](OTs)(2). In compound [Cu(2)(bdptz)(micro-vpy)](OTf)(2), 5(OTf)(2), where vpy = 2-vinylpyridine, the vpy ligand bridges the two Cu(I) centers by using both its pyridine nitrogen and the olefin as donor functionalities. The sterically hindered compounds [Cu(2)(Ph(4)bdptz)(MeCN)(2)](OTf)(2), 6(OTf)(2), and [Cu(2)(Ph(4)bdptz)(micro-O(2)CCH(3))](OTf), 7(OTf), were also synthesized, where Ph(4)bdptz = 1,4-bis[bis(6-phenyl-2-pyridyl)methyl]phthalazine. Complexes 1-7 were characterized structurally by X-ray crystallography. In 6 and 7, the four phenyl rings form a hydrophobic pocket that houses the acetonitrile and acetate ligands. Complex 6 displays two reversible redox waves with E(1/2) values of +41 and +516 mV versus Cp(2)Fe(+)/Cp(2)Fe. Analysis of oxygenated solutions of 6 by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry reveals probable aromatic hydroxylation of the Ph(4)bdptz ligand. The different chemical and electrochemical behavior of 1 versus 6 highlights the influence of a hydrophobic binding pocket on the stability and reactivity of the dicopper(I) centers.     

Syntheses, luminescence behavior, and assembly reaction of tetraalkynylplatinate(II) complexes: crystal structures of [Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)(Ctbd1;CC(5)H(4)N)Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)](PF(6))(3) and [Pt(2)Ag(4)(Ctbd1;CCtbd1;CC(6)H(4)CH(3)-4)(8)(THF)(4)

A series of tetraalkynylplatinate(II) complexes, (NBu(4))(2)[Pt(Ctbd1;CR)(4)] (R = C(6)H(4)N-4, C(6)H(4)N-3, and C(6)H(3)N(2)-5), and the diynyl analogues, (NBu(4))(2)[Pt(Ctbd1;CCtbd1;CR)(4)] (R = C(6)H(5) and C(6)H(4)CH(3)-4), have been synthesized. These complexes displayed intense photoluminescence, which was assigned as metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) transitions. Reaction of (Bu(4)N)(2)[Pt(Ctbd1;CC(5)H(4)N-4)(4)] with 4 equiv of [Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)(MeCN)](OTf)(2) in methanol did not yield the expected pentanuclear platinum product, [Pt(Ctbd1;CC(5)H(4)N)(4)[Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)](4)](OTf)(6), but instead afforded a strongly luminescent 4-ethynylpyridine-bridged dinuclear complex, [Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)(Ctbd1;CC(5)H(4)N)Pt((t)Bu(3)trpy)](PF(6))(3,) which has been structurally characterized. The emission origin is assigned as derived from states of predominantly (3)MLCT [d(pi)(Pt) --> pi((t)Bu(3)trpy)] character, probably mixed with some intraligand (3)IL [pi --> pi(Ctbd1;C)], and ligand-to-ligand charge transfer (3)LLCT [pi(Ctbd1;C) --> pi((t)()Bu(3)trpy)] character. On the other hand, reaction of (Bu(4)N)(2)[Pt(Ctbd1;CCtbd1;CC(6)H(4)CH(3)-4)(4)] with [Ag(MeCN)(4)][BF(4)] gave a mixed-metal aggregate, [Pt(2)Ag(4)(Ctbd1;CCtbd1;CC(6)H(4)CH(3)-4)(8)(THF)(4)]. The crystal structure of [Pt(2)Ag(4)(Ctbd1;CCtbd1;CC(6)H(4)CH(3)-4)(8)(THF)(4)] has also been determined. A comparison study of the spectroscopic properties of the hexanuclear platinum-silver complex with its precursor complex has been made and their spectroscopic origins were suggested.     

Synthesis, structures and reactivity of ruthenium nitrosyl complexes containing Kläui's oxygen tripodal ligand

Ruthenium nitrosyl complexes containing the Kl?ui's oxgyen tripodal ligand L(OEt)(-) ([CpCo{P(O)(OEt)(2)}(3)](-) where Cp = η(5)-C(5)H(5)) were synthesized and their photolysis studied. The treatment of [Ru(N^N)(NO)Cl(3)] with [AgL(OEt)] and Ag(OTf) afforded [L(OEt)Ru(N^N)(NO)][OTf](2) where N^N = 4,4'-di-tert-butyl-2,2'-bipyridyl (dtbpy) (2·[OTf](2)), 2,2'-bipyridyl (bpy) (3·[OTf](2)), N,N,N'N'-tetramethylethylenediamine (4·[OTf](2)). Anion metathesis of 3·[OTf](2) with HPF(6) and HBF(4) gave 3·[PF(6)](2) and 3·[BF(4)](2), respectively. Similarly, the PF(6)(-) salt 4·[PF(6)](2) was prepared by the reaction of 4·[OTf](2) with HPF(6). The irradiation of [L(OEt)Ru(NO)Cl(2)] (1) with UV light in CH(2)Cl(2)-MeCN and tetrahydrofuran (thf)-H(2)O afforded [L(OEt)RuCl(2)(MeCN)] (5) and the chloro-bridged dimer [L(OEt)RuCl](2)(μ-Cl)(2) (6), respectively. The photolysis of complex [2][OTf](2) in MeCN gave [L(OEt)Ru(dtbpy)(MeCN)][OTf](2) (7). Refluxing complex 5 with RNH(2) in thf gave [L(OEt)RuCl(2)(NH(2)R)] (R = tBu (8), p-tol (9), Ph (10)). The oxidation of complex 6 with PhICl(2) gave [L(OEt)RuCl(3)] (11), whereas the reduction of complex 6 with Zn and NH(4)PF(6) in MeCN yielded [L(OEt)Ru(MeCN)(3)][PF(6)] (12). The reaction of 3·[BF(4)](2) with benzylamine afforded the μ-dinitrogen complex [{L(OEt)Ru(bpy)}(2)(μ-N(2))][BF(4)](2) (13) that was oxidized by [Cp(2)Fe]PF(6) to a mixed valence Ru(II,III) species. The formal potentials of the RuL(OEt) complexes have been determined by cyclic voltammetry. The structures of complexes 5,6,10,11 and 13 have been established by X-ray crystallography.     

Chiral phosphane alkenes (PALs): simple synthesis, applications in catalysis, and functional hemilability

A simple synthesis of a chiral phosphane alkene (PAL) involves: 1) palladium-catalyzed Suzuki coupling of 10-bromo-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ol (1) with phenylboronic acid to give quantitatively 10-phenyl-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ol (2); 2) reaction of 2 with Ph(2)PCl under acidic conditions to give a racemic mixture of the phosphane oxide (10-phenyl-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-yl)diphenylphosphane oxide ((Ph)troppo(Ph), 3), which is separated into enantiomers by using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) on a chiral column; 3) reduction with trichlorosilane to give the enantiomerically pure phosphanes (R)- and (S)-(10-phenyl-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-yl)diphenylphosphane ((Ph)tropp(Ph), 4). This highly rigid, concave-shaped ligand serves as a bidentate ligand in Rh(I) and Ir(I) complexes. Catalysts prepared from [Rh(2)(mu(2)-Cl)(2)(C(2)H(4))(4)] and (S)-4 have allowed the efficient enantioselective 1,4-addition of arylboronic acids to alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyls (Hayashi-Miyaura reaction) (5-0.1 mol % catalyst, up to 95% ee). The iridium complex (S,S)-[Ir((Ph)tropp(Ph))(2)]OTf ((S,S)-6; OTf=SO(3)CF(3)) has been used as a catalyst in the hydrogenation of various nonfunctionalized and functionalized olefins (turnover frequencies (TOFs) of up to 4000 h(-1)) and moderate enantiomeric excesses have been achieved (up to 67% ee). [Ir((Ph)tropp(Ph))(2)]OTf reversibly takes up three equivalents of H(2). The highly reactive octahedral [Ir(H)(2)(OTf)(CH(2)Cl(2))(H(2)-(Ph)tropp(Ph))(2)] could be isolated and contains two hydrogenated monodentate H(2)-(Ph)tropp(Ph) phosphanes, one CH(2)Cl(2) molecule, one triflate anion, and two hydrides. Based on this structure and extensive NMR spectroscopic studies, a mechanism for the hydrogenation reactions is proposed.     

Mono- and dinuclear complexes of chiral tri- and tetradentate Schiff-base ligands derived from 1,1'-binaphthyl-2,2'-diamine

The synthesis and characterization of the bis(bidentate) Schiff-base ligand [(R)-2] formed by the condensation reaction of (R)-1,1'-binaphthyl-2,2'-diamine [(R)-BINAM] with pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde is presented. The coordination chemistry of (R)-2 with Ni(ClO(4))(2).6H(2)O, Co(ClO(4))(2).6H(2)O, CuCl(2), and CuSO(4) has been investigated. Reaction of (R)-2 with the first two metal salts leads to complexes of the type [M((R)-4)(2)](ClO(4))(2) (M = Ni(II), Co(II)), where (R)-4 is a tridentate ligand resulting from the hydrolytic cleavage of one of the pyridyl groups from (R)-2. Both complexes were characterized by X-ray crystallography, which showed that the Lambda absolute configuration of the metal center is favored in both cases. (1)H NMR spectroscopy suggests that the high diastereoselectivity of Lambda-[Co((R)-4)(2)](ClO(4))(2) is maintained in solution. The reaction of (R)-2 with CuCl(2) leads to the dinuclear complex [Cu(2)((R)-2)Cl(4)], which has a [Cu(2)(mu(2)-Cl(2))] core. The reaction of CuSO(4) with (R)-2 gives a dimeric complex, [Cu((R)-4)SO(4)](2), which features a [Cu(2)(mu(2)-(SO(4))(2))] core. This complex can be prepared directly by the reaction of (R)-BINAM with pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde and CuSO(4). The use of rac-BINAM in this synthetic procedure leads to the heterochiral dimer [Cu(2)((R)-4)((S)-4)(SO(4))(2)]; that is, the ligands undergo a self-sorting (self/nonself discrimination) process based on chirality. The reaction of rac-BINAM, pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde, and Co(ClO(4))(2).6H(2)O proceeds via a homochiral self-sorting pathway to produce a racemic mixture of [Co((R)-4)(2)](2+) and [Co((S)-4)(2)](2+). The variable-temperature magnetic susceptibilities of the bimetallic complexes [Cu(2)((R)-2)Cl(4)], [Cu((R)-4)(mu(2)-SO(4))](2), and [Cu(2)((R)-4)((S)-4)(mu(2)-SO(4))(2)] all show weak antiferromagnetic coupling with J = -1.0, -0.40, and -0.67 cm(-)(1), respectively.     

Oxidative γ-addition of enals to trifluoromethyl ketones: enantioselectivity control via Lewis acid/N-heterocyclic carbene cooperative catalysis

An oxidative γ-functionalization of enals under N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysis to give unsaturated δ-lactones is disclosed. Enantioselectivity control involving the relatively remote enal γ-carbon was achieved via Lewis acid [Sc(OTf)(3) or combined Sc(OTf)(3)/Mg(OTf)(2)] and NHC cooperative catalysis.     

Mechanistic studies on the reactions of PhS(-) or [MoS(4)](2)(-) with [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) (M = Fe or Co)

Kinetic studies, using stopped-flow spectrophotometry, on the reactions of [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) (M = Fe or Co) with PhS(-) to form [M(SPh)(4)](2)(-) are described, as are the reactions between [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) and [MoS(4)](2)(-) to form [S(2)MoS(2)Fe(SPh)(2)](2)(-) or [S(2)MoS(2)CoS(2)MoS(2)](2)(-). The kinetics of the reactions with PhS(-) are consistent with an initial associative substitution mechanism involving attack of PhS(-) at one of the tetrahedral M sites of [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) to form [M(4)(SPh)(11)](3)(-). Subsequent or concomitant cleavage of a micro-SPh ligand, at the same M, initiates a cascade of rapid reactions which result ultimately in the complete rupture of the cluster and formation of [M(SPh)(4)](2)(-). The kinetics of the reaction between [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) and [MoS(4)](2)(-) indicate an initial dissociative substitution mechanism at low concentrations of [MoS(4)](2)(-), in which rate-limiting dissociation of a terminal thiolate from [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-) produces [M(4)(SPh)(9)](-) and the coordinatively unsaturated M site is rapidly attacked by a sulfido group of [MoS(4)](2)(-). It is proposed that subsequent chelation of the MoS(4) ligand results in cleavage of an M-micro-SPh bond, initiating a cascade of reactions which lead to the ultimate break-up of the cluster and formation of the products, [S(2)MoS(2)Fe(SPh)(2)](2)(-) or [S(2)MoS(2)CoS(2)MoS(2)](2)(-). With [Co(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-), at higher concentrations of [MoS(4)](2)(-), a further substitution pathway is evident which exhibits a second order dependence on the concentration of [MoS(4)](2)(-). The mechanistic picture of cluster disruption which emerges from these studies rationalizes the "all or nothing" reactivity of [M(4)(SPh)(10)](2)(-).     

Constructing homo- and hetero-metallic molecular topologies using pyridylcarboxylates as spacers: preparation of a half-ring complex with active coordination sites

Addition of isonicotinic acid NC(5)H(4)CO(2)H (or isonicH) to [Pt(dppf)(MeCN)(2)](2+)2OTf(-)(dppf = 1,1'-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene, OTf = triflate) affords a mixture of the homometallic molecular square [Pt(4)(dppf)(4)(mu-O(2)CC(5)H(4)N)(4)](4+)4OTf(-), 1 and its precursor intermediate [Pt(dppf)(eta(1)-NC(5)H(4)CO(2)H)(2)](2+)2OTf(-), 2. The latter captures [Pd(dppf)(MeCN)(2)](2+)2OTf(-) to give a heterometallic square, [Pt(2)Pd(2)(dppf)(4)(mu-O(2)CC(5)H(4)N)(4)](4+)4OTf(-), 3. Slight skeletal modification of the ligand leads to different assemblies. This is illustrated by the addition of NC(5)H(4)CH(2)CO(2)H.HCl to [Pt(dppf)(MeCN)(2)](2+)2OTf(-) to give [PtCl(dppf)(NC(5)H(4)CH(2)CO(2)H)](+)OTf(-), 4, which reacts with another equivalent of AgOTf to yield the dibridged complex [Pt(2)(dppf)(2)(mu-NC(5)H(4)CH(2)CO(2))(2)](2+)2OTf(-), 5. All complexes, with the exception of , have been structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. Complexes 2 and 4 are potential precursors to further molecular topologies.     

A novel catalytic and highly enantioselective approach for the synthesis of optically active carbohydrate derivatives

A catalytic enantioselective inverse-electron demand hetero-Diels-Alder reaction of alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl compounds with electron-rich alkenes catalyzed by chiral bisoxazolines in combination with Cu(OTf)2 as the Lewis acid is presented. The reaction of gamma-substituted beta,gamma-unsaturated alpha-keto esters with vinyl ethers and various types of cis-disubstituted alkenes proceeds in good yield, high diastereoselectivity, and excellent enantioselectivity. The potential of the reaction is demonstrated by the synthesis of optically active carbohydrates such as spiro-carbohydrates, an ethyl beta-D-mannoside tetraacetate, and acetal-protected C-2-branched carbohydrates. On the basis of X-ray crystallographic data and the absolute configuration of the products, it is proposed that the alkene approaches the si-face of the reacting alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl functionality when coordinated to the catalyst.     

Chiral monomeric and homochiral dimeric copper(II) complexes of a new chiral ligand, N-(1,2-bis(2-pyridyl)ethyl)pyridine-2-carboxamide: an example of molecular self-recognition

Reaction of Cu(ClO(4))(2) x 6H(2)O with a racemic mixture of the novel chiral ligand N-(1,2-bis(2-pyridyl)ethyl)pyridine-2-carboxamide (PEAH) affords only the homochiral dimeric copper(II) complexes [Cu(2)((R)()PEA)(2)](ClO(4))(2) and [Cu(2)((S)()PEA)(2)](ClO(4))(2) in a 1:1 ratio. The phenomenon of molecular self-recognition is also observed when a racemic mixture of the monomeric copper(II) complex [Cu((R(S))()PEA)(Cl)(H(2)O)] is converted into the homochiral dimeric species [Cu(2)((R(S))()PEA)(2)](ClO(4))(2) via reaction with Ag(+) ion. This is the first report of direct conversion of a racemic mixture of a chiral monomeric copper(II) complex to a mixture of the homochiral dimers.     

Homochiral nickel coordination polymers based on salen(Ni) metalloligands: synthesis, structure, and catalytic alkene epoxidation

One-dimensional (1D) homochiral nickel coordination polymers [Ni(3)(bpdc)(RR-L)(2)·(DMF)](n) (2R, RR-L = (R,R)-(-)-1,2-cyclohexanediamino-N,N'-bis(3-tert-butyl-5-(4-pyridyl)salicylidene), bpdc = 4,4'-biphenyldicarboxylic acid) and [Ni(3)(bpdc)(SS-L)(2)·(DMF)](n) (2S, SS-L = (S,S)-(-)-1,2-cyclohexanediamino-N,N'-bis(3-tert-butyl-5-(4-pyridyl)salicylidene) based on enantiopure pyridyl-functionalized salen(Ni) metalloligand units NiL ((1,2-cyclohexanediamino-N,N'-bis(3-tert-butyl-5-(4-pyridyl)salicylidene))Ni(II)) have been synthesized and characterized by microanalysis, IR spectroscopy, solid-state UV-vis spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetric measurement, and powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Each NiL as unbridging pendant metalloligand uses one terminal pyridyl group to coordinate achiral unit (nickel and bpdc(2-)) building a helical chain, while the other pyridyl group remains uncoordinated. Both 2R and 2S contain left- and right-handed helical chains made of the achiral building blocks, while the NiL as remote external chiral source is perpendicular to the backbone of the helices. The nickel coordination polymers 2R and 2S containing unsaturated active nickel center in metalloligand NiL can be used as self-supported heterogeneous catalysts. They show catalytic activity comparable with their homogeneous counterpart in alkene epoxidation and exhibit great potential as recyclable catalysts.     

Highly electrophilic, 16-electron [Ru(P(OMe)(OH)(2))(dppe)(2)](2+) complex turns H(2)(g) into a strong acid and splits a Si-H bond heterolytically. Synthesis and structure of the novel phosphorous acid complex [Ru(P(OH)(3))(dppe)(2)](2+)

The highly electrophilic, 16-electron, coordinatively unsaturated [Ru(P(OMe)(OH)(2))(dppe)(2)][OTf](2) complex brings about the heterolytic activation of H(2)(g) and spontaneously generates HOTf. In addition, trans-[Ru(H)(P(OMe)(OH)(2))(dppe)(2)](+) and an unprecedented example of a phosphorous acid complex, [Ru(P(OH)(3))(dppe)(2)](2+), are formed. The [Ru(P(OMe)(OH)(2))(dppe)(2)][OTf](2) complex also cleaves the Si-H bond in EtMe(2)SiH in a heterolytic fashion, resulting in the trans-[Ru(H)(P(OMe)(OH)(2))(dppe)(2)](+) derivative.