Stereoselective Multiple Bond-Forming Transformations (MBFTs): The Power of 1,2- and 1,3-Dicarbonyl Compounds

Modular, flexible, and stereoselective synthesis of pyrroloquinolines: rapid assembly of complex heterocyclic scaffolds

A novel 1,2-dinucleophile engages two imines in a sequential vinylogous Mannich-Mannich-Pictet-Spengler process to generate complex hexahydropyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolines in a one-pot operation. This methodology provides a rapid, highly modular, and flexible access toward a wide range of products and forms four new σ-bonds and chiral centers each. The diastereoselectivity may be inverted by fine-tuning of reaction conditions and the electronic nature of the imines.

Origin of the enantioselectivity in organocatalytic Michael additions of β-ketoamides to α,β-unsaturated carbonyls: a combined experimental, spectroscopic and theoretical study

The organocatalytic enantioselective conjugate addition of secondary β-ketoamides to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds is reported. Use of bifunctional Takemoto's thiourea catalyst allows enantiocontrol of the reaction leading either to simple Michael adducts or spirocyclic aminals in up to 99 % ee. The origin of the enantioselectivity has been rationalised based on combined DFT calculations and kinetic analysis. This study provides a deeper understanding of the reaction mechanism, which involves a predominant role of the secondary amide proton, and clarifies the complex interactions occurring between substrates and the catalyst.

Access to novel imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazine scaffolds by the combined use of a three-component reaction and a base-assisted intramolecular cyclization

A novel and practical two-step approach to an intriguing class of imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazines with exocyclic C=X (X = CH2, O) bonds is described. The process utilizes a sequential three-component reaction of propargyl amine or aminoester, 1,2-diaza-1,3-dienes and isothiocyanates to furnish functionalized 2-thiohydantoins which are transformed into thiohydantoin-fused tetrahydropyrazines by subsequent regioselective base-promoted cyclization.

Asymmetric Synthesis of Functionalized Dihydro- and Tetrahydropyrans via an Organocatalytic Domino Michael-Hemiacetalization Reaction

Starting from α-hydroxymethyl nitroalkenes and various 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, a one-pot organocatalyzed diastereo- and enantioselective synthesis of polyfunctionalized dihydro- and tetrahydropyran derivatives via a domino Michael-hemiacetalization sequence is reported. The title compounds bearing a variety of functional groups can be synthesized in this way in good yields (59-91%) and with moderate to excellent diastereoselectivities (26-98% de) and enantioselectivities (71-99% ee).

Concise synthesis of atorvastatin lactone under high-speed vibration milling conditions

A Hantzsch-type multicomponent reaction under high-speed vibration milling conditions followed by acid treatment afforded atorvastatin lactone in 38% overall yield.

A facile synthesis of functionalized dispirooxindole derivatives via a three-component 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction

An efficient synthesis of novel dispirooxindoles has been achieved through three-component 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides generated in situ by the decarboxylative condensation of isatin and an α-amino acid with the dipolarophile 5-benzylideneimidazolidine-2,4-dione. The improved procedure features mild reaction conditions, high yields, high diastereoselectivities, a one-pot procedure and operational simplicity.