New and efficient conditions for the Z-selective synthesis of unsaturated esters by the Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons olefination

The Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction of both 1 (Stillʹs reagent) and 2 (Andoʹs reagent) with aldehydes was studied. Tris[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl]amine (TDA-1) was shown to be an efficient additive when the reaction was performed in THF at −78 °C. Selectivities close to 95% were obtained in the condensation of 1 with aromatic aldehydes. The use of a 5-fold excess of 18C6 in this reaction had already been reported. However, we have defined conditions in which only catalytic amounts are required.