Modular Synthesis\nof Polycarbonyl Compounds via Regioselective\nHydration of Oxo-Alkynes

A novel protocol has been developed for the modular synthesis\nof\npolycarbonyl compounds by catalytic hydration of 1,3-diketone-tethered\nalkynes. The hydration process exhibits good regioselectivity and\nhigh yields at room temperature, avoiding the use of strong acids\nand noble metals and the requirement for elevated temperatures. Mechanistic\ninsights suggest that the hydration proceeds through a concerted process\nof alkyne protonation and remote carbonyl participation. This approach\nprovides direct access to tandem heterocycle dyads and triads.