Domino reactions for the synthesis of various alpha-substituted nitro alkenes

Efficient one-pot methods for the synthesis of variously functionalised conjugated nitro alkenes have been reported. Despite the utility in different fields of these compounds, only a few multi-step syntheses have been reported in the literature, giving the target compounds in low overall yields. alpha-Nitro acrylates or cinnamates, alpha-nitro alpha,beta-unsaturated ketones and, most importantly, aromatic and heteroaromatic (E)- 2-nitro allylic alcohols, compounds characterised by a well-known anticancer activity, were obtained in high yields and high diastereomeric purity by a domino condensation-dehydration process.