ortho-Induced transition-metal-free C-arylation cyclization reaction for the synthesis of polysubstituted isocoumarins

A new protocol for the synthesis of polysubstituted isocoumarins from 2-iodobenzoic acid and β-diketone compounds has been developed. The occurrence of C-arylation cyclization reaction in transition-metal-free systems and ortho-induced substrates has been exploited. Reactions using these inexpensive conditions have displayed high functional group tolerance and excellent yields.