Carbenes ring true: N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyzed reactions of α-bromo-α,β-unsaturated aldehydes/α,β-dibromoaldehydes with 1,3-dinucleophilic reagents, such as 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, β-enamino ketones, and β-enamino esters through umpolung processes gave functionalized 3,4-dihydropyranones and 3,4-dihydropyridinones. The availability of the starting materials, lack of external oxidant, and usefulness of the products make this strategy attractive.

Smooth as isatin! A straightforward synthesis of spirocyclic oxindole–dihydropyranones through an N‐heterocyclic‐carbene‐catalyzed [4+2] annulation of α‐bromo‐α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes or α,β‐dibromoaldehyde bearing γ‐H with isatin derivatives under mild reaction conditions is disclosed (see scheme). The concise construction, ready availability of the starting materials, avoidance of external oxidants, and the potential utilization value of final products in molecular biology and pharmacy makes this approach particularly attractive.

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The title reaction affords highly functionalized 3,4‐dihydropyranones or 3,4‐dihydropyridinones via umpolung processes in the absence of an external oxidant.