The phosphinates 1 and 2, phosphorylated analogues of putrescine and spermi
dine. were synthesized from a common precursor. ethyl(phtalimidomethyl)viny
lphosphinate (9) by monochlorination of diethyl(phtalimidomethyl)phosphonat
e (7) and subsequent treatment with vinylmagnesium bromide. Michael additio
n of benzylamine or 3-azidopropylamine to 9 followed by catalytic hydrogena
tion (Pd/C) afforded 1 and 2 in good overall yields.