Facile Ru-catalysed synthesis of quinazolin-4(3H)-ones by tandem cyclization of 2-nitrobenzonitrile and alcohol derivatives under air

Abstract

We have developed an efficient approach for the first Ru-catalysed synthesis of 2-arylquinazolin-4(3H)-ones from 2-nitrobenzonitriles and alcohols. This method features a broad substrate scope, high yields, and functional group tolerance and does not require any oxidant or reductant, allowing for simple, practical and sustainable synthesis.