Reaction of dianions of acyclic beta-enamino ketones with electrophiles .7. Synthesis of 5-(monoalkylamino)-3-oxo gamma,delta-unsaturated acids and esters and of 3-(monoalkylamino)-5-oxo beta,gamma-unsaturated esters

Dianions of β-(monoalkylamino) α,β-unsaturated ketones react with carbon dioxide and diethyl carbonate leading to the title compounds. 2-alkyl-5-(monoalkylamino)-3-oxo γ,8-unsaturated acids are unstable and decarboxylate in a few hours after isolation. 3-(monoalkylamino)-5-oxo β,γ-unsaturated acids are never recovered from γ-dianions. Transmetallation from enaminone dianion to esters may occur. γ-Dianions require a non-nucleophilic base to obtain better results.