Base-Catalyzed Cascade Cyclization of 2-Nitrochalcones and Isocyanides to Access Pyrano[3,4-b]indol-1(9H)-one Frameworks

An unexpected cascade reaction of 2-nitrochalcones with isocyanoacetates has been reported for the efficient synthesis of indole carboxylic esters and pyranoindoles. The conversion was achieved by KOH-catalyzed cyclization and elimination of the nitro group with final decarbonylation-aromatization. The method was used to synthesize a series of potentially biologically active indole derivatives (49 examples) in 67-85% yields under transition-metal-free catalytic conditions.

Lanthanide Silylamide-Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyrano[2,3-b]indol-2-ones

A lanthanide silylamide-catalyzed tandem reaction of isatins, diethyl phosphite, and 2,3-diarylcyclopropenones has been developed. A series of pyrano[2,3-b]indol-2-ones were synthesized in high yields. The cooperation of the Lewis acidity of the lanthanide center and the Bronsted basicity of the N(SiMe₃)₂ anion may be the key factor affecting the catalytic activity of lanthanide amides.

Ultrasound promoted clay catalyzed efficient and one pot synthesis of substituted oxindoles

A simple facile, one-pot synthesis of oxindoles in reasonable purity is reported via intramolecular Friedal-Craft cyclization. Clay KSF is an inexpensive, efficient and mild catalyst for the synthesis of substituted oxindoles by the reaction of chloroacetyl chloride and various anilines under the influence of ultrasonic irradiation under solvent-free conditions. The remarkable advantages of this method are the simple experimental procedures, short reaction times, high yields of products, suitability for a wide variety of substituents, and the green aspects through the avoidance of toxic catalyst and solvents.