Base-catalyzed cascade dimerization of γ-aryl-β,γ-enones into acylated terphenyls

4-Aryl-1-(het)arylbut-3-en-1-ones dimerize smoothly in the Bu^tOK/DMSO superbase system at 100°C for 4 h to afford acylated terphenyls in up to 79% yield. The dimerization is accompanied by elimination of the methylarene molecule.