E-selective isomerization of stilbenes and stilbenoids through reversible hydroboration

Hydroboration of a mixture of E and Z stilbenes and stilbenoids is followed by an elimination reaction to yield the E isomer with high stereoselectivity. The reaction tolerates aromatic substituents with varying stereoelectronic properties, occurs in one pot, and requires only commercially available reagents. An illustration of the isomerization reaction in a synthesis of resveratrol, a biologically active antioxidant, is presented.