Stereoselective synthesis of azepines through the conjugate addition of formamides to nitroalkenes and subsequent intramolecular nitrile oxide cycloaddition reaction

A concise and stereoselective formation of azepines is achieved through the conjugate addition of formamides to nitroalkenes and the subsequent intramolecular nitrile oxide cycloaddition (INOC) reaction. High cis-selectivity was observed. The one-pot modification of the two reactions provides direct preparation of azepines from nitroalkenes and formamides in moderate yields. The formyl group was readily removed by an acidic treatment without significant epimerization.