Double benzyne–furan cycloaddition and the assembly of 1,1′-binaphthyl and 1,1′-dinaphthyl ether systems

Aryne Chemistry: Generation Methods and Reactions Incorporating Multiple Arynes

Arynes hold significance for the efficient fusion of (hetero) arenes with diverse substrates, advancing the construction of complex molecular frameworks. Employing multiple equivalents of arynes is particularly effective in the rapid formation of polycyclic cores found in optoelectronic materials and bioactive compounds. However, the inherent reactivity of arynes often leads to side reactions, yielding unanticipated products and underlining the importance of a detailed investigation into the use of multiple arynes to fine-tune their reactivity. This review centers on methodologies and syntheses in organic reactions involving multiple arynes, categorizing based on mechanisms like cycloadditions, σ-bond insertions, nucleophilic additions, and ene reactions, and discusses aryne polymerization. The categorization based on these mechanisms includes two primary approaches: the first entails multiple aryne engagement within a single step while the second approach involves using a single equivalent of aryne sequentially across multiple steps, with both requiring strict reactivity control to ensure precise aryne participation in each respective step. Additionally, the review provides an in-depth analysis of the selection of aryne precursors, organized chronologically and by activation strategy, offering a comprehensive background that supports the main theme of multiple aryne utilization. The expectation remains that this comprehensive review will be invaluable in designing advanced syntheses engaging multiple arynes.

Friedel–Crafts alkylation of heteroarenes and arenes with indolyl alcohols for construction of 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles

An intriguing camphorsulfonic acid catalyzed Friedel–Crafts alkylation of arenes with indolyl alcohols has been developed featuring mild reaction conditions, wide substrate scope and high yields.

Ruthenium-Catalyzed Isomerization of Oxa/Azabicyclic Alkenes: an Expedient Route for the Synthesis of 1,2-Naphthalene Oxides and Imines

1,2-Naphthalene oxides and imines can be rapidly accessed through a ruthenium-catalyzed isomerization of readily available 7-oxa/azabenzonorbornadienes. These mild reaction conditions were found to be tolerant to various functional groups and the isomerization is highly regioselective.