Efficient synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines catalyzed by a Brønsted acid through cleavage of C-C bonds

Org Biomol Chem. 2016 Sep 28;14(36):8529-35. doi: 10.1039/c6ob01401a. Epub 2016 Aug 19.

Abstract

An efficient and convenient one-pot domino reaction for the direct synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines has been developed. This approach utilizes an imine formation reaction, SEAr reaction and cleavage of C-C bonds catalyzed by a Brønsted acid. β-Diketones and β-keto esters are both well tolerated to give the corresponding products in moderate to excellent yields.