Copper-catalyzed C–H [3 + 2] annulation of N-substituted anilines with α-carbonyl alkyl bromides via C(sp3)–Br/C(sp2)–H functionalization

Abstract

A copper-catalyzed C–H [3 + 2] annulation of N-substituted anilines with α-carbonyl alkyl bromides for the synthesis of 3,3′-disubstituted oxindoles is developed. Tandem C–H cycloamidation reactions of various α-carbonyl alkyl bromide derivatives including tertiary-α-bromoalkyl ketone esters, malonic esters and cycloalkanes, with N-aryl or alkyl substituted anilines, can be performed using this system, affording a vast array of valuable 3,3′-disubstituted oxindoles in moderate to good yields.