Studies on the deprotonation and subsequent [1,4]-Wittig rearrangement of α-benzyloxyallylsilanes

Upon exposure to s-BuLi, benzyloxyallylsilane undergoes an unusually rapid and efficient [1,4]-Wittig rearrangement. Herein we describe efforts aimed at trapping the intermediate alpha-carbanion with an electrophile prior to rearrangement. The results of these experiments indicate that alpha-deprotonation and bond reorganization are separate events. Findings herein further indicate that the future success of benzyloxyallylsilanes in [1,4]-Wittig rearrangements will likely hinge on the acidity of the benzylic protons. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.