A novel and efficient copper-catalyzed transannular ring-closing reaction of eight-membered rings has been developed that provides a straightforward way to synthesize bicyclo[3.3.0]octane derivatives in good yields. Mechanistic studies revealed that the reaction pathway might involve chlorination followed by the Kornblum reaction. Readily accessible starting materials and good functional group tolerance make this procedure attractive.

Copper-catalyzed synthesis of benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]indoles from element sulfur and 1-(2-iodophenyl)-1H-indoles is reported. Two sp2 C-S bonds are generated during the process. This is the first example of making benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]indoles from...

FeCl 3 -catalyzed diastereospecific synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[a]acridin-5(6H)-ones from enaminones was described. Single diastereoisomers were obtained in good to excellent yields. Two CÀ C bonds and three contiguous stereogenic centers were formed.