Synthesis of allyl phosphine oxides/boranes via Horner reaction of bis(diphenylphosphine)ethane monoxide reagent with an aldehyde

The Horner–Wittig addition–elimination reaction using bis(diphenylphosphine)ethane monoxide [DIPHOS(O)] with an aldehyde affords Z-allyl phosphine oxides/boranes. Alternatively, the stereoselective Lewis acid mediated intermolecular reduction of its γ-ketobisphosphoranes and stereoselective intramolecular reduction of γ-ketophosphine·borane derivatives followed by elimination of diphenylphosphinate affords E-allyl phosphine oxides/boranes with good to high selectivity. Allyl phosphine oxides are common intermediates in the synthesis of polyenes.