Convergent Synthesis of Diverse Tetrahydropyridines via Rh(I)-Catalyzed C-H Functionalization Sequences.

A Rh-catalyzed C-H bond activation/alkenylation/electrocyclization cascade reaction provides diverse 1,2-dihydropyridines from simple and readily available precursors. The reaction can be carried out at low (<1%) Rh-catalyst loadings, and the use of the robust, air-stable Rh precatalyst, [RhCl(cod)]