NHC-catalyzed C–O or C–N bond formation: efficient approaches to α,β-unsaturated esters and amides

Simple and efficient NHC-catalyzed transformations of bromoenal or α,β-dibromoenal into α,β-unsaturated esters or amides with high stereoselectivity through C-O or C-N bond formation have been demonstrated. The NHC-catalyzed processes occur under mild conditions. The ready availability of the starting materials, avoidance of external oxidants and the usefulness of the products all make the strategy attractive.