Synthesis of 3,3'-spirocyclic oxindoles via phosphine catalyzed [4 + 2] cyclizations

Org Lett. 2013 Aug 2;15(15):4002-5. doi: 10.1021/ol401798w. Epub 2013 Jul 23.

Abstract

Triphenylphosphine promoted reactions between 3-arylideneoxindoles and δ-aryl-substituted penta-2,3-dienoates afford an unprecedented access to spirocyclic oxindoles with functionalized six-membered rings. In these new [4 + 2] cyclization processes, the allenoates operate as the four-carbon synthons, thanks to the involvement of the substituted δ-carbons. These reactions give excellent control of the relative stereochemistry of the three stereogenic centers. The stereochemistry of the final product has been ascertained by X-ray diffraction studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Cyclization
  • Indoles / chemical synthesis*
  • Indoles / chemistry
  • Molecular Structure
  • Organophosphorus Compounds / chemistry*
  • Oxindoles
  • Phosphines / chemistry*
  • Spiro Compounds / chemical synthesis*
  • Spiro Compounds / chemistry
  • Stereoisomerism
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Indoles
  • Organophosphorus Compounds
  • Oxindoles
  • Phosphines
  • Spiro Compounds
  • 2-oxindole
  • triphenylphosphine
  • phosphine