Substrate-controlled product-selectivity in the reaction of the Bestmann–Ohira reagent with N-unprotected isatin-derived olefins

Abstract

A mild and efficient reaction of the Bestmann–Ohira reagent with N-unprotected isatin-derived olefins has been developed for the selective synthesis of spiro-pyrazoline-oxindoles and tricyclic pyrazoles. The reaction features an attractive product-selectivity depending on the substituent on isatin-derived olefin. Treatment of 3-aryl/alkylideneoxindoles with BOR afforded spiropyrazoline-oxindoles, whereas 3-phenacylideneoxindoles furnished pyrazoloquinazolinones via a unique ring expansion reaction.