Superacid-promoted reactions of alpha-ketoamides and related systems.

ABSTRACT

The superacid-promoted reactions of alpha-hydroxy and alpha-ketoamides have been studied. Ionization of these compounds leads to varied aryl-substituted oxyindole products. In some cases, electrocyclization can lead to substituted fluorene products. Dicationic, superelectrophilic intermediates are proposed as intermediates leading to the products from alpha-hydroxy and alpha-ketoamides.