Abstract
Synthetic sequel: The transition-metal-catalyzed [2+2+2] cycloaddition is an established method for the construction of carbocyclic frameworks but is often plagued by poor selectivity. Recent literature paints a promising picture--a more general metal-catalyzed [2+2+2] cycloaddition can be accomplished intermolecularly using three separate alkynes to furnish highly substituted arenas (see scheme).