Cyclopropanation of Aryl and Styryl Acetonitriles With Selenium‐Based Dielectrophiles

Abstract Efficient cyclopropanation reactions of aryl or styrylacetonitriles with vinyl selenones under mild conditions were described. By this approach, synthetically challenging 1‐vinylcyclopropane‐1‐carbonitriles were accessible in good yields. This methodology features the advantage of operational simplicity, broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, transition‐metal‐free conditions, mild temperature, and a high level of regio‐ and diastereo‐control.