Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed regioselective cyclization of aromatic amides with allenes

Abstract

A new Cp*Rh(III)-catalyzed regioselective cyclization reaction of aromatic amides with allenes is reported. The use of allenyl derivatives bearing a directing-group assistant as a reaction promoter was the key to the success of this protocol. In this catalytic system, N-(pivaloyloxy)benzamide substrates react with allenes via Rh–σ–alkenyl intermediates, while N-(pivaloyloxy) indol substrates react via Rh–π–allyl intermediates. These reactions were characterized by mild reaction conditions, a broad substrate scope, and high functional-group compatibility to yield several high-value isoquinolinone and pyrimido[1,6-a]indol-1(2H)-one skeleton-containing compounds. The synthetic applications and primary mechanisms were also investigated.