An intramolecular ene-type cyclization of a bis(alkynedicobalt hexacarbonyl
) complex via an oxonium ion is described. This cyclization can be used in
an approach to the synthesis of the medium-ring enediyne cores found in NCS
chromophore, C-1027, and kedarcidin, employing an intramolecular oxonium-e
ne-type reaction.