An -Robinson Annulation Strategy for the Synthesis of Fused Bicyclic Amides: Synthesis of (±)-Coniceine and Quinolizidine.

An -Robinson annulation strategy is described using a NaOEt-catalyzed conjugate addition of cyclic imides onto vinyl ketones, followed by a TfOH-mediated intramolecular aldol condensation to afford densely functionalized fused bicyclic amides. The potential use of these amides in the synthesis of alkaloids is demonstrated by the sequential conversion of appropriate precursors to (±)-coniceine and quinolizidine in two additional steps, thus allowing their preparation in overall 40 and 44% yields, respectively.

Coupling of Sulfoxonium Ylides with Arynes: A Direct Synthesis of Pro-Chiral Aryl Ketosulfoxonium Ylides and Its Application in the Preparation of α-Aryl Ketones.

A general, mild, and versatile synthesis of the challenging α-aryl-β-ketosulfoxonium ylides has been developed for the first time, substituting traditional methods starting from diazo compounds. The arylation of easily accessible β-ketosulfoxonium ylides using aryne chemistry allowed the preparation of a large scope of the pro-chiral ylides in very good yields (40 examples; up to 85%). As applications, these ylides were smoothly converted into α-aryl ketones after desulfurization in good yields (up to 98%) as well as in other important derivatives.