Abstract The cuprate (LiPyR* Cu) transfers its pyridyl group to 4-phenyl-3-buten-2-one at− 60 C in ether to give (+)-4-phenyl-4-(2-pyridyl)-2-butanone in good yield with some enantioselectivity (23% ee). Additions to ethyl 3-phenyl-propenoate and to 5-phenyl-2, 2- dimethyl-4-penten-3-one give good yields but low inductions. Induction is also low on transfer of a phenyl group from LiPhR* Cu to 4-(2-pyridyl)-buten-2-one.
