Three-component coupling reactions of isoquinolines, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate and indoles: a facile synthesis of 3-indolyl-1,2-dihydro-2-isoquinolinyl-2-butenedioate

A three-component coupling of isoquinolines, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate (DMAD) and indoles is achieved for the first time to produce dimethyl (E)-2-[1-(1H-3-indolyl)-1,2-dihydro-2-isoquinolinyl]-2-butenedioates in excellent yields and with high selectivity. The reaction proceeds smoothly at room temperature without a catalyst. Quinoline, DMAD and indole also undergo smooth coupling to furnish dimethyl (E)-2-[2-(1H-3-indolyl)-1,2-dihydro-1-quinolinyl]-2-butenedioate under similar conditions. This method is very useful to functionalize both indoles and aza-aromatic compounds in a one-pot operation.