Chemical Reaction Named Robinson Annulation

Robinson Annulation: A Chemical Reaction in Organic Chemistry

Summary of the News

Robinson annulation, a chemical reaction discovered in 1935, has emerged as a powerful tool in organic synthesis. The reaction involves the two-step conversion of a cyclic ketone with methyl vinyl ketone into an αβ-unsaturated carbonyl compound.

This transformation has been widely used to construct complex molecules, including natural products and pharmaceuticals. The versatility of Robinson annulation stems from its ability to generate diverse ring systems and functional groups.

The reaction proceeds via a Michael addition followed by an aldol condensation. The initial Michael addition creates a new carbon-carbon bond between the ketone and the enone, forming an enolate intermediate. This intermediate then undergoes an aldol condensation to form the final product.

Robinson annulation has proven to be a reliable and efficient method for the synthesis of a wide range of organic compounds. Its continued use in research and development demonstrates the enduring impact of this chemical reaction in the field of organic chemistry.