Ag(I)-catalyzed asymmetric (2+4) annulation reaction of 5-alkenyl thiazolones: synthesis of enantioenriched spiro[cyclohexenamines-thiazolones]

The first metal-catalyzed (2+4) annulation of 5-alkenyl thiazolones and α,α-dicyanoalkylidenes has been developed via vinylogous Michael/cyclization/isomerization reaction. This (2+4) annulation reaction is catalyzed by a chiral Ag-(R)-DTBM-SEGPHOS catalyst, delivering enantioenriched spiro[cyclohexenamines-thiazolone] having contiguous quaternary and tertiary stereocenters in good to excellent yield (up to 80%) and excellent stereoselectivities (up to 97% ee and >20 : 1 dr). This methodology has high functional group tolerance and produces a broad range of enantioenriched products under mild reaction conditions.

Enantioselective Nickel-Catalyzed α-Spirocyclization of Lactones

Herein we report a strategy for the enantioselective synthesis of spirocycles containing all-carbon quaternary centers via nickel-catalyzed intramolecular addition of lactone enolates to aryl nitriles. The established lactone α-spirocyclization efficiently and enantioselectively forges 5-, 6-, and 7-membered rings, performing best in the synthesis of 7-membered rings (up to 90% ee). This discovery represents an expansion of the synthetic toolkit for enantioselective spirocyclization, providing access to chiral, pharmaceutically relevant spirocyclic products.

Stereoselective Double Spirocyclization of 2-Benzyl-3-alkynyl Chromone with Nitrone via Gold-Catalyzed Cascade Reactions

A novel, highly stereoselective gold-catalyzed spirocyclization of 2-benzyl-3-alkynyl chromone with nitrone is described. This cascade reaction involves gold-catalyzed cycloisomerization, nitrone-olefin [3 + 2]-annulation, alkene oxidation, and rearrangement for the formation of spirocyclic products. Interestingly, the isoxazolidine ring generated from [3 + 2]-annulation donates oxygen to alkene to generate a new pyran-3(4H)-one and azetidine ring for dispiro-benzofuran formation upon heating. This work demonstrates the one-pot, gold-catalyzed, multiple-step reaction, and the reaction temperature directly affects the formation of spirocyclic products.

Enantioselective Synthesis of Spiro[cyclopentane-1,3'-oxindole] Scaffolds with Five Consecutive Stereocenters

A highly diastereo- and enantioselective cascade annulation reaction of Morita-Baylis-Hillman (MBH) maleimides of isatins with ortho-hydroxychalcones was achieved by a chiral N,N'-dioxide/Mg(II) complex Lewis acid catalyst. This strategy provides a concise and efficient route to densely functionalized spiro[cyclopentane-1,3'-oxindole] compounds with five consecutive stereocenters. The reaction itself features mild conditions, good functional group compatibility, and broad substrate scope (62 examples, up to 99% yield, up to >20:1 dr, 97% ee). In addition, an obvious ligand acceleration effect and chiral amplification effect were observed. DFT calculations were performed to elucidate the stereoselectivity observed. The gram-scale synthesis and the inhibitory effect of two products on the viability of A549 cells demonstrate the potential utility of the current method.

Organocatalytic Asymmetric Construction of Spirooxazines via Chemoselective Cascade Addition of N-Substituted Hydroxylamine with Keto-bis-enone

Spirooxazines represent a privileged heterocyclic scaffold having pronounced biological importance. Herein, we introduce a chiral bifunctional squaramide catalyzed highly chemoselective cascade reaction involving aza-Michael/1,2-addition/oxa-Michael addition of N-substituted hydroxylamine with keto-bis-enones. This strategy enables the synthesis of highly enantioenriched oxa-spirooxazines with a broad substrate tolerance. Scalability and synthetic transformation have demonstrated the feasibility of the protocol. Furthermore, control experiments provided insights into the reaction mechanism.

Baeyer-Villiger oxidation: a promising tool for the synthesis of natural products: a review

Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is a well-known reaction utilized for the synthesis of lactones and ester functionalities from ketones. Chiral lactones can be synthesized from chiral or racemic ketones by employing asymmetric Baeyer-Villiger oxidation. These lactones act as key intermediates in the synthesis of most of the biologically active natural products, their analogues, and derivatives. Various monooxygenases and oxidizing agents facilitate BV oxidation, providing a broad range of synthetic applications in organic chemistry. The variety of enzymatic and chemoselective Baeyer-Villiger oxidations and their substantial role in the synthesis of natural products i.e., alkaloids, polyketides, fatty acids, terpenoids, etc. (reported since 2018) have been summarized in this review article.

Diversity-Oriented Synthesis of Spiro[chromeno[2,3-b]pyridine-3,4'-pyrazole] Derivatives via Pseudo-Three-Component Reactions

A novel one-pot pseudo-three-component reaction of 2-amino-4H-chromen-4-ones with 4-benzylidene-5-alkyl-2-aryl-2,4-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-ones was investigated for the synthesis of the spiro[chromeno[2,3-b]pyridine-3,4'-pyrazole] derivatives. This procedure involved Michael addition, elimination, and hetero-Diels-Alder sequences, affording a series of spiropyrazolone-chromeno[2,3-b]pyridines in good yields that possessed cis relationships between two aryl groups and the carbonyl of the pyrazolone unit.

Organocatalytic Dearomative Spirocyclization Reaction of Enone-Tethered α-and β-Naphthols and Dearomatization Reaction of In Situ Generated Nitro-Olefin-Tethered α-Naphthols

Herein, we report a catalytic dearomative spirocyclization reaction of new substrates having aryl/alkyl enone tethered α- and β-naphthols and a dearomatization reaction of in situ generated nitro-olefin-tethered α-naphthols. The spirocarbocycles were obtained in moderate to good yields with high diastereoselectivities. A preliminary catalytic asymmetric variant was reported. A few applications such as hydrogenations and epoxidation reaction have also been demonstrated. Theoretical study has also been performed to understand high diastereoselectivity in the triethylamine catalyzed spirocyclization reaction.

Highly regio- and stereoselective (3 + 2) annulation reaction of allenoates with 3-methyleneindolin-2-ones catalyzed by a planar chiral [2.2]paracyclophane-based bifunctional phosphine-phenol catalyst

A planar chiral [2.2]paracyclophane-based phosphine-phenol catalyst catalyzed the (3 + 2) annulation reaction of ethyl 2,3-butadienoate with 3-methyleneindolin-2-ones to produce 2,5-disubstituted cyclopentene-fused C3-spirooxindoles in high yields with high regio-, diastereo-, and enantioselectivities. This catalyst was suitable for reactions of not only benzylideneindolinones but also alkylideneindolinones, the chiral phosphine-catalyzed reactions of which have not yet been reported. Density functional theory calculations suggested that the formation of hydrogen bonds between the phenolic OH group of the catalyst and the allenoate carbonyl group, rather than between the OH group and the carbonyl group of indolinone, contributed to the formation of an efficient reaction space at the enantiodetermining step.

A one-pot ultrasound-assisted regio and stereoselective synthesis of indenoquinoxaline engrafted spiropyrrolidines

A catalyst free ultrasound-assisted regio-/stereoselective modular approach was accomplished for the synthesis of highly constrained indenoquinoxaline engrafted spiro pyrrolidines from easily available substrates. This one-pot strategy utilizes 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition from a four component reaction of ninhydrin, 1,2-phenylenediamine, β-nitrostyrene and benzylamine or amino acids under ultrasound irradiation. The transformation is mild and operationally simple, providing architecturally complex fused spiro polycyclic heterocycles. This synthesis was confined to follow the group-assistant-purification (GAP) chemistry process, which can avoid chromatographic purifications and use of catalysts and allows easy access to a novel class of spiro engrafted polyheterocyclic scaffolds, which may be beneficial in biomedical research/materials science in the near future. This opens an era for the formation of a single exo product, when compared with reported protocols, by merely switching over reaction conditions to US irradiation.

NIS-Promoted Chemodivergent and Diastereoselective Synthesis of Pyrrolinyl and Cyclopentenyl Spiropyrazolones via Regulated Cyclization of Alkylidene Pyrazolones with Enamino Esters

An N-iodosuccinimide-promoted annulation of alkylidene pyrazolones with enamino esters has been explored to construct a spiropyrazolone moiety through a Michael addition/iodination/intramolecular nucleophilic substitution sequence. When the reaction was performed in acetonitrile at 100 °C, it furnished pyrrolinyl spiropyrazolones exclusively in an anti configuration through N-attacking cyclization. When the reaction was performed in dimethyl sulfoxide at 80 °C in the presence of K2HPO4, it afforded cyclopentenyl spiropyrazolones exclusively in the syn configuration through C-attacking cyclization. A plausible mechanism has also been proposed.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of 1,8-Naphthyridine Based Scaffolds: Design, Synthesis and in Silico Simulation Studies within Topoisomerase II

A series of spiro β-Lactams (4 a-c, 7 a-c) and thiazolidinones (5 a-c, 8 a-c) possessing 1,8-naphthyridine moiety were synthesized in this study. The structure of the newly synthesized compounds has been confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C NMR, mass spectra, and elemental analysis. The synthesized compounds were tested in vitro for their antibacterial and antifungal activity against various strains. The antimicrobial data showed that most of the compounds displayed good efficacy against both bacteria and fungi. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies suggested that the presence of electron-withdrawing chloro (3 b, 4 b, and 5 b) and nitro groups (7 b, 8 b) at the para position of the phenyl ring improved the antimicrobial activity of the compounds. The free radical scavenging assay showed that all the synthesized compounds exhibited significant antioxidant activity on DPPH. Compounds 8 b (IC50=17.68±0.76 μg/mL) and 4 c (IC50=18.53±0.52 μg/mL) showed the highest antioxidant activity compared to ascorbic acid (IC50=15.16±0.43 μg/mL). Molecular docking studies were also conducted to support the antimicrobial and SAR results.

Stereodivergent Synthesis of Spiroaminals via Chiral Bifunctional Hydrogen Bonding Organocatalysis

Spiroaminals represent novel structural motifs prevalent in diverse natural products and biologically active molecules. Achieving their enantioselective synthesis is a highly desirable and challenging task in synthetic endeavors due to their intricate molecular frameworks. Herein, we accomplished the first stereodivergent construction of spiroaminals using chiral bifunctional organocatalyzed intramolecular 1,2-addition followed by an oxa-Michael addition cascade in a high atom and step economical pathway. A proper modulation of the cinchona-derived squaramide catalysts efficiently provided access to all the possible stereoisomers with high yield, diastereoselectivity, and excellent enantioselectivity while displaying a broad substrate tolerance. Additionally, we validated the scalability of the reaction and demonstrated the synthesis of variable spiroaminal scaffolds, confirming the viability of our protocol.

Cascade [4 + 1] Annulation through Activation of the C(sp2)-H Bond Enabling Benzothiadiazinoisoindolcarboxylate, Benzothiadiazinoisoindole, and Benzothiadiazinoisoindolepyrrolidinedione as Hybrid Spiro-Heterocyclic Frameworks†

Two structurally distinct and biologically privileged succinimide and isoindole heteroarenes bearing benzothiadiazinedioxide motif-centered hybrid conjugates are proficiently achieved through Rh(III)-catalyzed sequential C(sp2)-H bond activation, ortho-alkenylation and finally cascade intramolecular cyclization. The significant feature of this developed protocol is that the resulting diversely decorated heterocycles contain a quaternary carbon center and this has been coursed through atypical [4 + 1] annulation ignoring the prevalent [4 + 2]-cyclization pathway and interestingly the applied coupling partners (e.g., maleimide, maleate, and styrene) to materialize the protocol functioned only as C1 synthon. Furthermore, the selective reduction strategy enables to modify the hybrid conjugate of succinimide and benzothiazine dioxide to benzothiazine dioxide-based spirocyclic isoindolopyrrolidinedione skeleton following preferential reduction of one carbonyl group of imide functionality. Overall this methodology emerges to be easily handled, versatile, time-efficient, and manifests relatively unfamiliar spiro-cyclization and good functional group tolerance so easy to grab a library of the entirely new variant of decorated hybrid spiro-heterocyclic scaffolds.

Diastereoselective synthesis of functionalized spiroindolines via intramolecular ipso-iodocyclization/nucleophile addition cascade reactions of indole-tethered ynones

Herein, we describe a highly diastereoselective approach for synthesizing polyfunctionalized spiroindolines from indolyl-ynones involving an ipso-iodocyclization/nucleophile addition cascade. The developed strategy allows the formation of a spirocyclic core and the installation of two functional groups in a single operation. Also this strategy is accompanied by the generation of two C-C and one C-I bonds and two contiguous stereocenters.

Organocatalytic Asymmetric Dearomative Spirocyclization/Oxa-Michael Addition Sequence: Synthesis of Polycyclic Tetralones

Herein, an organocatalytic asymmetric dearomative spirocyclization/oxa-Michael addition sequence with a newly designed substrate having two naphthol motifs has been developed. The reaction proceeds through in situ chiral vinylidene ortho-quinone methide (VQM) intermediate formation, dearomative spirocyclization of naphthol, and an oxa-Michael addition reaction. The densely functionalized tetralone products were formed in high yields with high diastereo- and enantioselectivities.

Asymmetric Tandem Michael Addition/Interrupted Nef Reactions of Nitromethane with Oxindole-Derived Alkenes: Enantioselective Synthesis of Spiro-polycyclic Oxindoles

Chiral spiro-polycyclic oxindoles are valuable heterocyclic ring systems that are widely distributed in natural alkaloids and biologically active compounds. Herein, we reported an asymmetric tandem Michael addition/interrupted Nef reaction of nitromethane with oxindole-derived alkenes catalyzed by a chiral 2-aminobenzimidazole bifunctional organocatalyst. A series of novel enantiomerically enriched spiro-polycyclic oxindole derivatives bearing an oxime group were synthesized in moderate to excellent isolated yields (up to 99%) with an excellent level of enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). Furthermore, the antiproliferation activity of the resulting oxindoles derivatives were evaluated, and compound 2d demonstrated promising anticancer properties against HCT116 (IC50 = 14.08 μM) and HT29 (IC50 = 15.46 μM) cell lines.

Chemodivergent mechanosynthesis of cyclopentenyl and pyrrolinyl spirobarbiturates from unsaturated barbiturates and enamino esters

A novel and interesting controllable spirocyclization of unsaturated barbiturates with enamino esters for the assembly of cyclopentenyl and pyrrolinyl spirobarbiturates has been developed under ball-milling conditions. The present protocol features high chemoselectivity and efficiency, excellent functional group tolerance and mild reaction conditions.

Visible-light promoted catalyst-free (VLCF) multi-component synthesis of spiro indolo-quinazolinone-pyrrolo[3,4-a]pyrrolizine hybrids: evaluation of in vitro anticancer activity, molecular docking, MD simulation and DFT studies

A new and highly efficient visible-light-promoted catalyst free (VLCF) strategy for neat and clean synthesis of spiro indolo-quinazolinone-pyrrolo[3,4-a]pyrrolizine hybrids (6a-d) has been introduced. We have performed visible-light triggered 1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition reaction of maleimide (5a-d) with azomethine ylide generated in situ derived from tryptanthrin (3) and L-proline (4) to obtain desired products (6a-d) in good to excellent yield. Authentication and characterization of product was done using various spectroscopic techniques such as IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Mass spectrometry and single crystal XRD analysis. To explain the reaction spontaneity, product stability, reactivity as well as possible mode of the interaction a quantum chemical investigation was performed and depicted through DFT studies. The synthesized compound 6a was also evaluated for anti-proliferative activity against a panel of five cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, HeLa, PC-3 and Ishikawa) and normal human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell line by using MTT assay. Compound 6a showed very good in vitro anti-proliferative activity (IC50  = 6.58-17.98 μM) against four cancer cell lines and no cytotoxicity against normal HEK-293. In order to evaluate the anticancer potential of compounds 6a-d, molecular docking was performed against wild type and mutant EGFR. The results suggest that all the compounds occupied the active site of both enzymes, with a strong binding energy (-10.2 to -11.5 kcal/mol). These results have been confirmed by molecular dynamics simulation by evaluating root mean square deviation (RMSD) and root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), along with principal component analysis (PCA).Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Enantioselective C-H bond functionalization under Co(III)-catalysis

While progress in enantioselective C-H functionalization has been accomplished by employing 4d and 5d transition metal-based catalysts, the rapid depletion of these metals in the earth's crust poses a serious threat to making these protocols sustainable. On the other hand, because of their unique reactivity, low toxicity, and high earth abundance, newer strategies utilizing affordable 3d transition metals have come to the forefront. Among the first-row transition metals, high-valent cobalt has recently attracted a lot of attention for catalytic C-H functionalization with mono and bidentate directing groups. This approach was extended for asymmetric catalysis due to a fairly thorough knowledge of its catalytic cycles. Four major themes have been investigated as a result of this insight: (1) rational design of a chiral Cp#Co(III)-catalyst, (2) chiral carboxylic acid with achiral Cp*Co(III)-catalysts using monodentate directing groups, (3) cobalt/salox-based systems, and (4) cobalt/chiral phosphoric acid-based hybrid systems with bidentate directing groups. Herein, we highlight the recent developments in high-valent cobalt-catalyzed enantioselective C-H functionalization up to October 2023, with the strong belief that the current state-of-the-art can attract considerable interest in the synthetic community, encouraging discoveries in the evolving landscape of asymmetric catalysis.

Electrophile-Controlled Regiodivergent Palladium-Catalyzed Imidoylative Spirocyclization of Cyclic Alkenes

An intermolecular controllable Pd-catalyzed spirocyclization of isocyano cycloalkenes has been developed, offering efficient and selective approaches toward spirocyclic hydropyrrole scaffolds. 2-Azaspiro-1,7-dienes could be obtained through a "chain-walking" process with aryl/vinyl iodides as electrophiles, while the normal Heck product 2-azaspiro-1,6-dienes were selectively generated when aryl triflates were used as the coupling partner of isocyanides. Mechanistic studies suggested that the counteranion of the Pd(II) intermediate played a crucial role in the regioselectivity control. Dihydropyrrole-fused 5,6,7-membered spirocycles were switchably accessed under mild conditions with wide functional group tolerance.

Recent advances in microwave-assisted multicomponent synthesis of spiro heterocycles

Spiro heterocycle frameworks are a class of organic compounds that possesses unique structural features making them highly sought-after targets in drug discovery due to their diverse biological and pharmacological activities. Microwave-assisted organic synthesis has emerged as a powerful tool for assembling complex molecular architectures. The use of microwave irradiation in synthetic chemistry is a promising method for accelerating reaction rates and improving yields. This review provides insights into the current state of the art and highlights the potential of microwave-assisted multicomponent reactions in the synthesis of novel spiro heterocyclic compounds that were reported between 2017 and 2023.

Switchable Synthesis of Spirodihydroindolizines and Indolizines from Aurones and Pyridin-2-yl Active Methylene Compounds

A novel and flexible domino reaction of aurones with pyridin-2-yl active methylene compounds promoted by I2/BF3 has been developed to afford spirodihydroindolizines and indolizines in a controllable manner. When the reaction was performed in 1,2-dichloroethane at 80 °C, a variety of spirodihydroindolizines were obtained, whereas it almost exclusively provided a series of indolizines when the reaction was performed in a mixed solvent of 1,2-dichloroethane and N,N-dimethylformamide at a relatively higher temperature of 100 °C. Being metal-free, excellent product selectivity, high atom economy, good functional group tolerance, and feasibility for large-scale synthesis are the salient features of the developed methodology.

Synthesis of 1,7-Fused Indolines Tethered with Spiroindolinone Based on C-H Activation Strategy with Air as a Sustainable Oxidant

Herein, we present an efficient synthesis of 1,7-fused indolines tethered with a spiroindolinonyl moiety through the cascade reaction of indolin-1-yl(aryl)methanimines with diazo oxindoles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example in which 1,7-fused indoline skeleton was constructed along with the simultaneous introduction of a spiro element initiated by the C-H bond activation of indoline. In forming the title product, the indoline substrate and the diazo coupling partner demonstrated an unprecedented reaction pattern in which the latter acts as a C1 synthon to participate in the construction of the spirocyclic scaffold through the reductive elimination of a key seven-membered Ru(II) species by using air as an effective and sustainable oxidant to regenerate the active catalyst. Moreover, studies on the cytotoxicity of selected products against several human cancer cell lines demonstrated their potential as lead compounds for the development of anticancer drugs. With notable features such as simple and economical substrates, pharmaceutically valuable products with sophisticated spirocyclic skeleton, mild reaction conditions, cost-free and sustainable oxidants, high efficiency, excellent compatibility with diverse functional groups, and scalability, this method is expected to find wide applications in related areas.

Leveraging cascade alkynyl Prins cyclization towards the stereoselective synthesis of spiro-furan quinazolinone scaffolds

A TfOH-promoted, metal-free protocol has been unveiled for the synthesis of spiro-furan quinazolinones employing alkynol urea derivatives utilizing alkynyl Prins cyclization reaction. This methodology produces highly functionalized spiro-heterocycles in excellent yields with exclusive E-selectivity under ambient conditions. Furthermore, late-stage modifications incorporate bromide and acetyl functionalities into the synthesized spiro-heterocycles.

Efficient synthesis of new indenopyridotriazine [4.3.3]propellanes and spiroindenopyridotriazine-4H-pyran derivatives

The pyrido[1,2,4]triazines as substrates, generated from 1,6-diaminopyridinone derivatives and ninhydrin, were reacted with malononitrile and CH-acids to afford a new library spiro[indeno[1,2-e]pyrido[1,2-b][1,2,4]triazine-7,5'-pyran]-1,3,6'-tricarbonitrile in ethanol at reflux condition in excellent yield. Also, novel indenopyridotriazine [4.3.3]propellanes were synthesized via the reaction of pyrido[1,2,4]triazine and N-methyl-1-(methylthio)-2-nitroethenamine (NMSM) by using of HOAc in ethanol. The important aspects of this protocol are the abundance of starting materials, mild conditions, structural diversity of products, excellent yields and easy isolation of products with no chromatographic technique.

Origin of Enantio- and Chemoselectivity in the Synthesis of Spirocycles via Palladium/Xu-Phos-Catalyzed Cascade Heck/Remote C(sp2)-H Alkylation: A Computational Mechanistic Study

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to study the mechanism and factors affecting the enantio-, regio-, and chemoselectivities in the palladium/Xu-Phos-catalyzed cascade Heck/remote C(sp2)-H alkylation reaction. The active catalyst is found to be able to sustain coordination with P and S atoms and can adapt its coordination mode to accommodate the significant steric hindrance between the ligand and substrate, unlike previous findings that showed coordination with P and O atoms. The reaction is established to occur in sequence through the oxidative addition of the aryl iodide to Pd(0), intramolecular alkene insertion, C(sp2)-H bond activation, and C(sp2)-C(sp3) bond reductive elimination. The C(sp2)-C(sp3) bond reductive elimination is identified as the rate-determining step, and the intramolecular alkene insertion as the enantioselectivity-determining step. The high enantioselectivity originates from the stronger electronic interaction between the catalyst and substrate; the exclusive 5-exo-regioselectivity is due to the stronger nucleophilicity of the terminal alkene carbon atom, and the chemoselectivity of C-H activation over carboiodination is driven by thermodynamics.

Organocatalytic Enantioselective Intramolecular Michael Addition by In Situ Generated Aminoisobenzofulvenes: Construction of Spiro Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters

An unprecedented enantioselective organocatalytic spirocyclization strategy is presented by in situ generation of aminoisobezofulvenes. The reaction sequence involves a reductive Michael/aldol-condensation/Michael addition cascade by iminium-enamine catalysis. The key success of this spirocyclization was the formation of intermediatory nucleophilic aminoisobenzofuvenes accountable for intramolecular Michael addition. Benzospirononanes featuring an all carbon qauternary spirocenter were obtained using proline-derived amino-organocatalyst in moderate to good yields and excellent diastereo- and enantioselectivities (up to >20 : 1 dr, and 99 % ee). Post-methodological manipulation of benzospirononanes was also demonstrated.

Ag(I)-catalyzed dearomatizing spirocyclization/nucleophile addition cascade reactions of indole-tethered ynones

Ag(I)-catalyzed highly diastereoselective construction of divergent spiroindolines is disclosed herein. The approach proceeds via dearomatizing spirocyclization of indole-tethered ynones followed by C-nucleophile or hydride trapping. The established strategy is accompanied by the generation of two new C-C bonds and two contiguous stereocenters. This strategy features a broad range of (hetero)arenes as C-nucleophiles and excellent diastereoselectivity.

Axially chiral styrene-based organocatalysts and their application in asymmetric cascade Michael/cyclization reaction

An axially chiral styrene-based organocatalyst, featuring a combination of axially chiral styrene-based structure and a pyrrole ring, has been designed and synthesized. This catalyst demonstrates remarkable capabilities in producing a wide range of densely substituted spirooxindoles that feature an alkyne-substituted quaternary stereogenic center. These spirooxindoles are generated through mild cascade Michael/cyclization reactions, resulting in high conversion rates and exceptional enantioselectivity. Our catalytic model, based on experiments, X-ray structure analysis and DFT calculations suggests that chiral matched π-π interactions and multiple H-bonds between the organocatalyst and substrates play significant roles in controlling the stereoselectivity of the reaction.

Rhodium Catalyzed [4 + 1]-Annulation of o-Acylanilines with 3-Diazoindoline-2-imines

An efficient rhodium catalyzed [4 + 1]-annulation of o-acylanilines with 3-diazoindoline-2-imines has been successfully accomplished for the synthesis of spiroindolines in good to excellent yield. The reaction occurs through formation of N-ylide followed by cyclization and showed good tolerance to various functional groups. Gram-scale synthesis, diastereoselective construction of tetrasubstituted indoline, synthesis of spirooxindole, and isolation of potential intermediates have also been demonstrated.

Palladium-Catalyzed Carbonylative Dearomatization of Indoles to Achieve Carbonyl-Containing Spirocyclic Indolenines Bearing an All-Carbon Quaternary Center

A Pd-catalyzed carbonylative dearomatization via an acyl Pd complex has been developed. Diversified carbonyl-containing spirocyclic indolenines with an all-carbon quaternary center were constructed in an efficient and straightforward way with good to excellent yields. The protocol features a simple catalytic system, operational simplicity, a broad substrate scope, easy scale-up, and versatile transformations. In addition, the asymmetric reaction was initially explored with moderate enantioselectivity.

Palladium-Catalyzed Dearomatization of Indoles with Alkynes: Construction of Spirocyclohexaneindolenines

A palladium-catalyzed dearomatization of indoles with alkynes has been developed, providing an efficient route to access a variety of synthetically useful spirocyclohexaneindolenines in moderate to good yields. The current method features a simple catalytic system, operational simplicity, and good functional group compatibility, which will contribute substantially to the development of dearomatization to access spiro compounds. Besides, the ubiquitous existence of spiro molecules, including spirocyclohexaneindolenines, in drugs and biological active molecules suggests the potential application of this methodology in medicinal chemistry.

Spiro-Flavonoids in Nature: A Critical Review of Structural Diversity and Bioactivity

Based on the literature data from 1973 to 2022, this work summarizes reports on spiro-flavonoids with a spiro-carbon at the center of their structure and how this affects their isolation methods, stereochemistry, and biological activity. The review collects 65 unique structures, including spiro-biflavonoids, spiro-triflavonoids, spiro-tetraflavonoids, spiro-flavostilbenoids, and scillascillin-type homoisoflavonoids. Scillascillin-type homoisoflavonoids comprise spiro[bicyclo[4.2.0]octane-7,3'-chromane]-1(6),2,4-trien-4'-one, while the other spiro-flavonoids contain either 2H,2'H-3,3'-spirobi[benzofuran]-2-one or 2'H,3H-2,3'-spirobi[benzofuran]-3-one in the core of their structures. Spiro-flavonoids have been described in more than 40 species of eight families, including Asparagaceae, Cistaceae, Cupressaceae, Fabaceae, Pentaphylacaceae, Pinaceae, Thymelaeaceae, and Vitaceae. The possible biosynthetic pathways for each group of spiro-flavonoids are summarized in detail. Anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities are the most important biological activities of spiro-flavonoids, both in vitro and in vivo. Our work identifies the most promising natural sources, the existing challenges in assigning the stereochemistry of these compounds, and future research perspectives.

Palladium-Catalyzed Annulative Coupling of Spirovinylcyclopropyl Oxindoles with p-Quinone Methides

Pd-catalyzed annulative coupling of spirovinylcyclopropyl oxindoles with p-quinone methides has been accomplished via cascade carbon-carbon bond formation to afford bis-spirooxindole scaffolds. The mild reaction conditions, diastereoselectivity, functional group diversity, post-synthetic transformations, and mechanistic studies using DFT calculations are the important practical features.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel spirocyclic compounds as potential anti-glioblastoma agents

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with extremely limited clinical treatment options. Because of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), it is difficult for anti-GBM drug candidates to enter the brain to exert their therapeutic effects. The spirocyclic skeleton structure exhibits good lipophilicity and permeability, enabling small-molecule compounds to cross the BBB. Herein, we designed and synthesized novel 3-oxetanone-derived spirocyclic compounds containing a spiro[3.4]octane ring and determined their structure-activity relationship for antiproliferation in GBM cells. Among these, the chalcone-spirocycle hybrid 10m/ZS44 exhibited high antiproliferative activity in U251 cells and permeability in vitro. Furthermore, 10m/ZS44 activated the SIRT1/p53-mediated apoptosis pathway to inhibit proliferation in U251 cells, whereas it minimally impaired other cell-death pathways, such as pyroptosis or necroptosis. In a mouse xenograft model, 10m/ZS44 exhibited a substantial inhibitory effect on GBM tumor growth without showing obvious toxicity. Overall, 10m/ZS44 represents a promising spirocyclic compound for the treatment of GBM.

CAN-Promoted Thiolative ipso-Annulation of Unactivated N-Benzyl Acrylamides: Access to SCN/SCF3/SO2Ar Containing Azaspirocycles

A variety of acrylamides holding an unactivated N-benzyl group underwent dearomative ipso-cyclization induced by sulfur-centered radicals (SCN/ SCF₃/ SO₂Ar) in the presence of ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) as the oxidant to furnish azaspirocycles in good yields. This is the first report on ipso-dearomatization of N-benzyl acrylamides that proceeds without a substituent at the para-position of the aromatic ring. The developed conditions are also found to be suitable for substrates holding substituents such as F, NO₂, OMe, OH, and OAc at the para-position. The reaction features water as the source of oxygen, is compatible with a variety of functional groups, and proceeds in a short time.

Construction of Spiro[benzo[a]acridine-12,4'-imidazolidine]-2',5'-dione Derivatives via Ring-Opening and Recyclization of Isatins and C-OH Cleavage of 2-Naphthol

An efficient three-component reaction to access spiro[benzo[a]acridine-12,4'-imidazolidine]-2',5'-dione derivatives has been developed through the ring-opening and recyclization process of isatins and dehydroxylation of 2-naphthol, which is different from their conventional reaction modes. Experimental observations suggest that p-toluenesulfonic acid is the key factor that promotes the success of this synthetic strategy. The research provided a novel approach for the construction of spiro compounds from isatins and 2-naphthol in organic synthesis.

Exotic Reaction Dynamics in the Gas-Phase Preparation of Anthracene (C14H10) via Spiroaromatic Radical Transients in the Indenyl-Cyclopentadienyl Radical-Radical Reaction

The gas-phase reaction between the 1-indenyl (C₉H₇^•) radical and the cyclopentadienyl (C₅H₅^•) radical has been investigated for the first time using synchrotron-based mass spectrometry coupled with a pyrolytic reactor. Soft photoionization with tunable vacuum ultraviolet photons afforded for the isomer-selective identification of the production of phenanthrene, anthracene, and benzofulvalene (C₁₄H₁₀). The classical theory prevalent in the literature proposing that radicals combine only at their specific radical centers is challenged by our discovery of an unusual reaction pathway that involves a barrierless combination of a resonantly stabilized hydrocarbon radical with an aromatic radical at the carbon atom adjacent to the traditional C1 radical center; this unconventional addition is followed by substantial isomerization into phenanthrene and anthracene via a category of exotic spiroaromatic intermediates. This result leads to a deeper understanding of the evolution of the cosmic carbon budget and provides new methodologies for the bottom-up synthesis of unique spiroaromatics that may be relevant for the synthesis of more complex aromatic carbon skeletons in deep space.

Cis-Selective Double Spirocyclization via Dearomatization and Isomerization under Thermodynamic Control

Spiro compounds have been considered key scaffolds for pharmaceutical applications. Although many synthetic methods exist for monospirocycles, fewer approaches are known for dispirocycles. Here, we report a highly cis-selective method for constructing a 5/6/5-dispirocyclic structure containing pyrrolidine and γ-lactam rings with various substituents from a series of N-arylpropiolamides. The high cis-selectivity would result from isomerization under thermodynamic control. Cis- and trans-diastereomers can be in equilibrium, favoring cis-adducts.

Electrochemical monofluoroalkylation cyclization of N-arylacrylamides to construct monofluorinated 2-oxindoles

An electrochemical monofluoroalkylation cyclization of N-arylacrylamides to synthesize monofluorinated 2-oxindoles has been developed, which employs common dimethyl 2-fluoromalonate as a monofluoroalkyl radical precursor and obviates the use of prefunctionalized monofluoroalkylation reagents and sacrificial oxidants. A variety of monofluorinated nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds were efficiently obtained with satisfactory yields from readily available materials.

Access to Spirooxindole-Fused Cyclopentanes via a Stereoselective Organocascade Reaction Using Bifunctional Catalysis

The present study reports an asymmetric organocascade reaction of oxindole-derived alkenes with 3-bromo-1-nitropropane efficiently catalyzed by the bifunctional catalyst. Spirooxindole-fused cyclopentanes were produced in moderate-to-good isolated yields (15-69%) with excellent stereochemical outcomes. The synthetic utility of the protocol was exemplified on a set of additional transformations of the corresponding spirooxindole compounds.

COAP/Pd-Catalyzed Linear Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation for Optically Active 3,3-Disubstituted Oxindole Derivatives with a Four-Carbon Amino Side Chain

An asymmetric linear selective allylic alkylation of vinylaziridines with 3-aryl oxindoles has been developed by using a chiral oxamide-phosphine (COAP-Bn-OMe-p)/palladium complex in methanol, which furnished a wide variety of 3,3-disubstituted oxindole derivatives in good yields with excellent regio- and enantioselectivities.

Green Synthesis of Spirooxindoles via Lipase-Catalyzed One-Pot Tandem Reaction in Aqueous Media

The development of non-natural enzymatic catalysis is important for multicomponent tandem organic transformations. However, the delicate acting environments of biological enzymes still present some challenges in the synthesis of spirooxindole skeleton via enzymatic catalysis. To address these issues, a lipase-catalyzed method was developed for the synthesis of spirooxindole frameworks. Using easily available isatins, cycloketones, and malononitriles as substrates, mild reaction conditions, and a reasonable reaction time, moderate to good yields (67–92%) and excellent functional group tolerance were accomplished via this protocol. The related mechanism explanation is also speculated in this paper.

Divergent Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Spiroheterocycles through Pd-Catalyzed Enantio- and Diastereoselective [3 + 2] Spiroannulation

The palladium-catalyzed divergent asymmetric synthesis of chiral spiro-furanindoline derivatives is described. The zwitterionic alkoxy π-allyl Pd(II) intermediate, generated catalytically from vinyl ethylene carbonate (VEC), could undergo ligand-controlled enantio- and diastereoselective dipolar [3 + 2] spiroannulation with indole-based azadienes to afford the optically active spiro-furanindolines embedding an all-carbon quaternary stereocenter in high yields (up to 99%) with good to excellent stereoselectivities (up to 99% ee and up to >94:6 dr).

Role of Cinchona Alkaloids in the Enantio- and Diastereoselective Synthesis of Axially Chiral Compounds

Asymmetric synthesis using organic catalysts has evolved since it was first realized and defined. Nowadays, it can be considered a valid alternative to transition metal catalysis for synthesizing chiral molecules. According to the literature, the number of asymmetric organocatalytic processes associated with atropisomer synthesis has rapidly increased over the past 10 years because organocatalysis addresses the challenges posed by the most widespread strategies used for preparing axially chiral molecules with satisfactory results.These strategies, useful to prepare a wide range of C-C, C-heteroatom, and N-N atropisomers, vary from kinetic resolution to direct arylation, desymmetrization, and central-to-axial chirality conversion. In this field, our contribution focuses on determining novel methods for synthesizing atropisomers, during which, in most cases, the construction of one or more stereogenic centers other than the stereogenic axis occurred. To efficiently address this challenge, we exploited the ability of catalysts based on a cinchona alkaloid scaffold to realize enantioselective organic transformations. Desymmetrization of N-(2-tert-butylphenyl) maleimides was one of the first strategies that we pursued for preparing C-N atropisomers. The main principle is based on the presence of a rotationally hindered C-N single bond owing to the presence of a large tert-butyl group. Following the peculiar reactivity of this type of substrate as a powerful electrophile and dienophile, we realized several transformations.First, we investigated the vinylogous Michael addition of 3-substituted cyclohexenones, where a stereogenic axis and two contiguous stereocenters were concomitantly and remotely formed and stereocontrolled using a primary amine catalyst. Subsequently, we realized desymmetrization via an organocatalytic Diels-Alder reaction of activated unsaturated ketones that enabled highly atropselective transformation with efficient diastereoselectivity, thereby simultaneously controlling four stereogenic elements. Employing chiral organic bases allowed us to realize efficient desymmetrizations using carbon nucleophiles, such as 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, cyanoacetates, and oxindoles. These reactions, performed with different types of catalysts, highlighted the versatility of organocatalysis as a powerful strategy for atropselective desymmetrization of pro-axially chiral maleimides.Hereafter, we studied the Friedel-Crafts alkylation of naphthols with indenones, a powerful method for enantioselective synthesis of conformationally restricted diastereoisomeric indanones. We realized the first axially chiral selective Knoevenagel condensation using cinchona alkaloid primary amine as the catalyst. This reaction provided a powerful method to access enantioenriched olefins containing the oxindole core. Subsequently, we initiated an intense program for the computational investigation of the reaction mechanism of our atropselective processes. An understanding of the catalytic activity for vinylogous atropselective desymmetrization as well as of the role played by the acidic cocatalyst used for the experimental work was achieved.Recently, we have garnered interest in the novel frontiers of atropselective synthesis. As observed in recent publications, there is considerable interest in the development of methods for preparing N-N atropisomers, an emerging topic in the field of atropselective synthesis. We focused on the synthesis of hydrazide atropisomers by developing a one-pot sequential catalysis protocol based on two sequential organocatalytic reactions that provided high stereocontrol of two contiguous stereogenic elements.