Zn/H2O-mediated tandem reductive cyclization of 2-(2-nitrophenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles with aldehydes to synthesize 5,6-dihydrobenzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-c]quinazolines

Abstract

A one-pot tandem approach to synthesize 5,6-dihydrobenzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-c]quinolones has been developed from 2-(2-nitrophenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles and aldehydes via a Zn/H₂O-mediated reductive cyclization process, characterised by cheap and readily available raw materials, a simple, green, economical and efficient protocol, good product yields and product diversity.