Ring expansion of cyclic 1,2-diols to form medium sized rings via ruthenium catalyzed transfer hydrogenative [4+2] cycloaddition.

A new method for the ring expansion of cyclic diols is described. Using improved conditions for the ruthenium(0) catalyzed cycloaddition of cyclic 1,2-diols with 1,3-dienes, fused [n.4.0] bicycles (n = 3-6) are formed, which upon exposure to iodosobenzene diacetate engage in oxidative cleavage to form the 9-12 membered rings .