Catalytic cross-coupling reaction of esters with organoboron compounds and decarbonylative reduction of esters with HCOONH(sub 4): a new route to acyl transition metal complexes through the cleavage of acyl-oxygen bonds in esters

The Ru(sub3)(CO)(sub 12)-catalyzed decarbonylative reduction of esters with ammonium formate (HCOONH(sub 4)) leading to hydrocarbons is also described. The key step for both catalytic reactions is the directing group-promoted cleavage of an acyl carbon-oxygen bond in esters, leading to the generation of acyl transition metal alkoxo complexes.