Transition-metal-free isofunctional reaction of α,β-unsaturated ketones/nitriles

Isofunctional reactions involving the cleavage of carbon-carbon double bonds (C=C) hold an important position in organic synthesis, as they allow for the restructuring of alkene carbon chains and enable the exchange of functional groups without introducing exogenous groups. Currently, these reactions are primarily divided into C=C/C=C metathesis and C=C/C=O metathesis, with most relying on the use of transition metal catalysts. We report herein a C=C/CH₂ metathesis reaction that obviates the need for transition metals and directing groups, and is characterized by economic and straightforward operation. This reaction not only facilitates the replacement of nitriles with ketones, but also enables the replacement of ketones with nitriles, demonstrating great universality.