Modular Construction of Heterobiaryl Atropisomers and Axially Chiral Styrenes via All-Carbon Tetrasubstituted VQMs.

Here we report a new type of chiral all-carbon tetrasubstituted VQMs generated via chiral phosphoric acids catalyzed nucleophilic addition of 2-alkynylnaphthols to o-quinone methides or imines, which can be captured intramolecularly as a result of cycloaddition reaction. A new class of naphthyl-2H-chromenes bearing axially and centrally chiral elements and axially chiral quinone-naphthols were prepared efficiently with good to excellent yields, diastereoselectivities and enantioselectivities. Noteworthy, the enantioselective cycloaddition of alkynylnaphthols with o-quinone methides proceeded via a [2+2] cycloaddition, followed by a retro-4π-electrocyclization and a 6π re-cyclization. While the cycloaddition of alkynylnaphthols with imines proceeded via a sequential [2+4] cycloaddition and an auto oxidation reaction. Moreover, the obtained axially chiral naphthols can be converted into valuable phosphine ligands and other functional molecules.

Scandium Triflate Catalyzed Tandem Transfer Hydrogenation and Cyclization Reaction of o-Aminobenzaldehydes and o-Aminoacetophenone with Alcohols.

An effective Sc-catalyzed transfer hydrogenation and cyclization tandem reaction has been achieved. This process showed excellent functional group compatibility and good yields. A variety of benzoxazines were produced with primary or secondary alcohols as a hydrogen source. Furthermore, the utility of this newly developed protocol is demonstrated through scaled-up experiment, late-stage modification, and preliminary exploration of enantioselective synthesis.