A construction of 4,4-spirocyclic γ-lactams by tandem radical cyclization with carbon monoxide.

A straightforward synthesis of 4,4-spirocyclic indol γ-lactams by tandem radical cyclization of iodoaryl allyl azides with CO was achieved. The reaction of iodoaryl allyl azides, TTMSS and AIBN under CO pressure (80 atm) in THF at 80 °C gave the desired 4,4-spirocyclic indoline, benzofuran, and oxindole γ-lactams in moderate to good yields.

Radical carbonylation of ω-alkynylamines leading to α-methylene lactams. Synthetic scope and the mechanistic insights.

Tin hydride mediated radical carbonylation and cyclization reaction was investigated using a variety of ω-alkynyl amines as substrates. In this reaction α-methylene and α-stannylmethylene lactams having five to eight membered rings were obtained as principal products. In cases where the nitrogen has a substituent capable of giving stable radicals, such as an α-phenethyl group, the lactam ring formation again took place with extrusion of an α-phenethyl radical.