Synthesis of novel spiro[indoline-3,7′-pyrrolo[1,2-c]imidazole]-6′-carbonitrile derivatives in water using a regioselective sequential three component reaction

Abstract

A novel and straightforward method for the synthesis of pharmacologically promising spiro[indoline-3,7′-pyrrolo[1,2-c]imidazole]-6′-carbonitrile derivatives has been developed by a sequential three component one-pot reaction of isatin, malononitrile and hydantoin or thiohydantoin derivatives catalyzed by Et₃N in water, an environmentally friendly reaction medium. This method provides clean and efficient access of privileged spirooxindole derivatives tethered with pyrrolizidine moiety from the readily available starting materials.