Efficient method for the synthesis of 2-(3-arylbenzo[f]quinolin-2-yl)ethanol derivatives through an unusual ring-opening of THF-involved reaction

An efficient synthesis of 2-(3-arylbenzo[f]quinolin-2-yl)ethanol derivatives by an unusual THF-involved reaction of aromatic aldehyde and naphthalen-2-amine promoted by iodine has been demonstrated with good yields. The ring-opening of THF reaction is proposed in the possible mechanism.