An efficient base-promoted tandem cyclization for the synthesis of polyfunctional
2-hydroxy-2,3-dihydrofurans from arylglyoxal monohydrates and 3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile has been established. The investigation of the mechanism
suggested that this reaction proceeds through a Knoevenagel condensation–Michael addition–oxidation–cyclization
sequence. This method demonstrates the compatibility with a wide range of functional
groups to produce the 2-hydroxy-2,3-dihydrofuran scaffolds in good to excellent yields
in one pot.
Key words
2-hydroxy-2,3-dihydrofurans - tandem cyclization - arylglyoxal monohydrates - 3-(1
H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile - one pot