Cu(OTf) Enhanced Intramolecular Nucleophilic -Arylation of 2-Amino-3-arylquinolines.

In the presence of Cu(OTf) (5 mol %) and KOBu, a synergistic effect of the -arylation process on 2-amino-3-arylquinolines is observed. Within 4 h, this method provides a wide variety of norneocryptolepine analogues with good to excellent yields. Overall, a double heteroannulation strategy for the synthesis of indoloquinoline alkaloids from nonheterocyclic precursors is demonstrated.