Synthesis of stereochemically-biased spiropyrans by microwave-promoted, one-pot alkylation-condensation

A Modern Look at Spiropyrans: From Single Molecules to Smart Materials

Photochromic compounds of the spiropyran family have two main isomers capable of inter-switching with UV or visible light. In the current review, we discuss recent advances in the synthesis, investigation of properties, and applications of spiropyran derivatives. Spiropyrans of the indoline series are in focus as the most promising representatives of multi-sensitive spirocyclic compounds, which can be switched by a number of external stimuli, including light, temperature, pH, presence of metal ions, and mechanical stress. Particular attention is paid to the structural features of molecules, their influence on photochromic properties, and the reactions taking place during isomerization, as the understanding of the structure-property relationships will rationalize the synthesis of compounds with predetermined characteristics. The main prospects for applications of spiropyrans in such fields as smart material production, molecular electronics and nanomachinery, sensing of environmental and biological molecules, and photopharmacology are also discussed.

One-pot, three-component Fischer indolisation-N-alkylation for rapid synthesis of 1,2,3-trisubstituted indoles

A one-pot, three-component protocol for the synthesis of 1,2,3-trisubstituted indoles has been developed, based upon a Fischer indolisation-indole N-alkylation sequence. This procedure is very rapid (total reaction time under 30 minutes), operationally straightforward, generally high yielding and draws upon readily available building blocks (aryl hydrazines, ketones, alkyl halides) to generate densely substituted indole products. We have demonstrated the utility of this process in the synthesis of 23 indoles, benzoindoles and tetrahydrocarbazoles bearing varied and useful functionality.