A new class of bicyclic dienes which contain a σ plane of symmetry are efficiently prepared in a diastereoselective fashion using ring closing metathesis reactions. These molecules have potential as starting materials for a wide range of organic targets.Key words: metathesis, catalysis, stereoselective, decalin, desymmetrization.
Application of the intramolecular asymmetric Heck reaction in the desymmetrization of a novel class of symmetrical bicyclodienes, synthesized through a diastereoselective double ring-closing metathesis (DSRCM) reaction, was achieved with good yields (approximately 80%) and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). Three contiguous stereocenters are established in a single desymmetrization reaction. The use of thallium carbonate as base in the asymmetric Heck reaction favours double bond migration in 13. Cationic conditions delivered products with good to excellent enantioselectivities, surpassing the results under neutral conditions.Key words: asymmetric, Heck, polycycles, metathesis, stereoselective, desymmetrization.