Hydroxysulfenylation of Electron-Deficient Alkenes through an Aerobic Copper Catalysis

A copper-catalyzed hydroxysulfenylation of α,β-unsaturated esters/amides is reported. The method presents a selective and efficient synthesis of β-hydroxysulfides bearing electron-withdrawing groups. The synthetic utility of this method is demonstrated by the concise synthesis of the anticancer drug bicalutamide.