Regioselective synthesis of multisubstituted isoquinolones and pyridones via Rh(iii)-catalyzed annulation reactions

Abstract

A mild and efficient Rh(III)-catalyzed regioselective synthesis of isoquinolones and pyridones has been developed. The protocol uses readily available N-methoxybenzamide or N-methoxymethacrylamide and diazo compounds as starting materials. The process involving tandem C–H activation, cyclization, and condensation steps proceeds under mild conditions, and the corresponding isoquinolone and pyridone derivatives were obtained in good to excellent yields with excellent regioselectivities. The process provides a facile approach for the construction of isoquinolone and pyridone derivatives containing various functional groups.