Catalytic syntheses of γ-functionalized α-keto esters from thioacetals and N,O-acetals

Ethyl 2-(trimethylsilyloxy)acrylic ester (1a) reacts with thioacetals providing the corresponding α-keto-γ-thio esters in good to satisfactory yields. Whereas aminals do not react, N,O-acetals lead to γ-amino-α-keto esters in good to excellent yields. All reactions proceed under mild reaction conditions, and no additional work up is required. Subsequent transformations of the obtained products to the corresponding α-oximes have been demonstrated.