Three-component coupling of an anionic nucleophile, butadienyltriphenylphosphonium bromide, and an aldehyde gave conjugated dienes of predominantly (E, Z) configuration. Dianions of β-dicarbonyl systems and dicarboxylic acids, and monoanions of sulfones were employed as nucleophiles. Stereoselectivity in favor of an (E, Z)-1, 3-diene was highest when a β-dicarbonyl dianion was used in conjunction with an α-branched aldehyde.
