Synthesis of anti-9-Bromo- and anti-9-Chlorobicyclo[4.2.1]nonatriene via Bicyclo[4.2.1]nonatriene→Bicyclo[4.2.1]nonatriene Rearrangement

The first syntheses of 9-bromo- and 9-chlorobicyclo[4.2.1]nona-2,4,6-trienes were each achieved in three stereoselective steps from the 9,9-bis(selenophenyl) derivative 9 in 79% overall yield for the bromide and 64% for the chloride. A deuterium-labeling experiment reveals the first rearrangement of a bicyclo[4.2.1]nonatriene which leaves the ring system intact.