New Synthesis of Isoquinoline Derivatives by Reactions of 2-(2-Methoxyethenyl)benzonitriles with Organolithiums and Lithium Dialkylamides

A simple and efficient synthesis of 1-alkyl(or aryl)isoquinoline and isoquinolin-1-amine derivatives based on intramolecular cyclization of 2-(2-methoxyethenyl)benzonitriles initiated by the addition of alkyl(or aryl)lithiums and lithium dialkylamides to the nitrile carbons, respectively, is described.