(E)- and (Z)-isocyanoalkenes
were selectively synthesized via the sequential cross coupling of
vinyl iodides with formamide, followed by dehydration. The optimal
catalyst, generated in situ from CuII and trans-N,N′-dimethyl-1,2-cyclohexanediamine, rapidly coupled (E)- or (Z)-vinyl iodides with formamide, which minimized
the isomerization of the resultant vinyl formamide. The method efficiently
provided a range of acyclic, carbocyclic, and heterocyclic isocyanoalkenes;
the versatility is illustrated with the selective, stereodivergent
syntheses of the diastereomeric isocyanoalkene antibiotics, B371 and E-B371.