application of the Hiyama reaction to the synthesis of retinoids is reported. A range of organosilicon moieties (siloxanes, silanols and three kinds of “safety-catch” silanols) were successfully coupled, under activation, to obtain trans-retinol or 11-cis-retinol with high yield and stereoselectivity. The advantageous properties of the silicon-based coupling partners and the mild reaction conditions firmly
palladium catalyst and a nucleophilic activator. Both all‐trans and 11‐cis‐retinoids, and their chain‐demethylated analogues, were obtained in good yields regardless of the geometry (E/Z) and of the steric congestion in each fragment. This comprehensive study conclusively establishes the Hiyama cross‐coupling reaction, with its mild reaction conditions and stable, easily prepared, ecologically advantageous