Synthesis of oxindoles via Cu-mediated reactions between N-phenylacrylamides and ethyl 2-bromo-2-methylpropionate

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/j.tetlet.2017.12.053

A novel way of synthesizing alkylated oxindoles via Cu-mediated atom transfer radical addition reaction between N-phenylacrylamides and ethyl 2-bromo-2-methylpropionate has been described. It was found that the use of N,N,N′,N′-1,1,2,2,-tetramethylethylenediamine as ligand was important for achieving good yields. Additionally, the use of DMSO as solvent and running the reaction at 130 °C were also crucial. In some cases, the product can be further brominated when the reaction temperature was raised to 150 °C.