Cu(II)-Catalyzed synthesis of 3-Functionalized benzofurans via sequential nucleophilic cyclization and C−C bond activation

A domino Cu-catalyzed nucleophilic cyclization and C-C bond activation to access various 3-acylated benzofurans has been developed. The in situ generated benzofuranylcopper intermediate was coupled with cyclopropenone, wherein the ring-opening of cyclopropenone with phenol was effectively suppressed. This strategy features excellent substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, and high atomic economy.