Synthesis of 2-(Arylselanyl)benzo[b]chalcogenophenes via Intramolecular Cyclization of Vinyl Selenides

Abstract

An efficient protocol to access 2-arylselanylbenzo[b]chalcogenophene derivatives through the Cu(I)-catalyzed annulation of vinyl selenides is described. The key vinyl selenides were easily prepared from properly functionalized 1,1-dibromostyrenes and the method allowed the synthesis of 2-arylselanylfurans, -thiophenes, and -selenophenes in moderate to excellent yields.