Synthesis of fused dibenzofuran derivatives via palladium-catalyzed domino C-C bond formation and iron-catalyzed cycloisomerization/aromatization

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/acs.joc.5b02637

A range of tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives bearing a variety of functional groups was readily synthesized via a two-stage domino strategy starting from propargyl ethers of 2-halo phenol derivatives. The first stage in the strategy involves Pd(0)-catalyzed domino intramolecular carbopalladation/Suzuki coupling via 5-exo-dig cyclization onto the alkyne, leading to 3-methylene-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran derivatives. In the second stage of the domino strategy, an iron(III)-catalyzed cycloisomerization and aromatization reaction produces tetracyclic benzofuran derivatives. This two-step sequence provides efficient access to diversely substituted polycyclic dibenzofuran derivatives in high yields and in an atom-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. Moreover, this strategy was also successfully used for the synthesis of a naturally occurring tetracyclic dibenzofuran, β-brazan.

Full text of DOI:10.1021/acs.joc.5b02637

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Article
Synthesis of Fused Dibenzofuran Derivatives via
Palladium-catalyzed Domino C-C Bond formation
and Iron-catalyzed Cycloisomerization/Aromatization
Kartick Paul, Swapnadeep Jalal, Sandip Kundal, and Umasish Jana
J. Org. Chem., Just Accepted Manuscript • DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.5b02637 • Publication Date (Web): 05 Jan 2016
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Synthesis of Fused Dibenzofuran Derivatives via
Palladium-catalyzed Domino C-C Bond formation and Iron-
catalyzed Cycloisomerization/Aromatization
9
Kartick Paul, Swapnadeep Jalal, Sandip Kundal and Umasish Jana*
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Department of Chemistry, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700 032, West Bengal, India, E-mail:
jumasish2004@yahoo.co.in, umasishjana@gmail.com, Fax: +91-33-2414-6584
Table of contents:
COR
Iron
Ar
R
Ar
X
Palladium
Ar
O
Isomerisation/
cyclodehydration
Heck-Suzuki
O
O
Abstract: A range of tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives bearing varieties of functional group were
readily synthesized via a two stage domino strategy starting from propargyl ethers of 2-halo phenol
derivatives. The first stage in the strategy involves a Pd(0)-catalyzed domino intramolecular
carbopalladation/Suzuki coupling via 5-exo-dig cyclization onto alkyne leading to 3-Methylene-2,3-
dihydrobenzofuran derivatives. In the second stage of the domino strategy, an iron(III)-catalyzed
cycloisomerization and aromatization reaction produces tetracyclic benzofuran derivatives. This two-
steps sequence provides an efficient access to diversely substituted polycyclic dibenzofuran
derivatives in high yields with an atom-efficient and ecological manner. Moreover, this strategy has
also successfully been used for the synthesis of naturally occurring tetracyclic dibenzofuran, β-
Brazan.
Introduction:
Polycyclic oxygen heterocycles constitute an important class of fused heterocycles found in numerous
natural products and have shown interesting biological properties. In particular, dibenzofuran
derivatives are an important class of heterocyclic compounds that have attracted much interest over
the years because of their occurrence in many natural products,1 material science2 and
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pharmaceutically active compounds that exhibit anticancer, antibacterial, antiallergy, antimalarial, and
anti-inflammatory activities.3 Due to their broad range of biological activity and interesting
pharmaceutical properties many synthetic routes have been developed to access dibenzofuran
derivatives.4 On the other hand, dibenzofuran embedded in tetracyclic structures are also found in
many biologically active natural products and pharmaceutically active agents (Fig 1). For examples,
tetracyclic β-Brazan 1a, was isolated from the bark of the plant Caesalpiniaechinata Lamarck
Brazilwood.5a It has also been reported that the related tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives are found
to exhibit selective PTPase inhibitors that function as oral antidiabetic agents.5b Compound 1a and its
derivatives are also found to oxidized benzo[b]naphtha [2,3-d] furan-6,11-dione 1b, which exhibits
promising anticancer and anticoccidial W5599A activity.5c-d The tetracyclic structure balsaminone A
(1c) is isolated from the pericarp of fruit of Impatiens balsaminaL, this compound has significant
antipruritic activity.5e Similarly, benzofurobenzofuran derivative 1d exhibits strong potent antitubercular
and antimycobacterial activity.5f Notably, benzofuroindole framework 1e is highly efficient in the
treatment of sexual hormone disorders, degenerative brain diseases and antitumor activity.5g-h
Moreover, benzofuro[2,3-b]quinolinederivatives 1f and benzofuro[2,3-b]pyridine 1g have been
reported as antituberculosis agent and CDK1, CDK5/p25 and GSK-3b inhibitor, respectively.5i
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Ar
MeO
OH
O
O
O
O
O
O
1d
O
O
1c
O
1b
1a
Ph
HO
Me
Me
Me
N
N
N
OH
N
O
1g
O
O
1e
1f
Figure 1. Fused-dibenzofuran derivatives in natural and medicinal compounds.
However, literature search revealed that a few methods has been developed for the synthesis of
tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives.4j,5b,6 Moreover, the described protocols are subjected to some
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limitations, such as non-availability of starting materials, lack of generality, multistep operation, harsh
reaction conditions, low chemical yields, unsatisfactory scope and efficiency. Owing to their important
biological activities, a reliable synthetic method for this class of compounds in efficient and atom-
economical manners are strongly required to further accesses in the area of drug discovery and
development for new materials.
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In recent years, transition metal-catalyzed domino process that allows the construction of complex
molecules starting from simple substrates in a few steps represents a significant challenge for the
synthesis of polycyclic molecules. In this context, palladium-catalyzed domino reactions are proved to
be extremely powerful tools for the construction of polycyclic compounds.7 In continuation of our
investigation to the synthesis of polycyclic heterocycles,8 recently, we have disclosed palladium-
catalyzed
domino
carbopaladation/Suzuki
reactions
and
iron(III)-mediated
cycloisomerization/aromatization reaction for the simple synthesis of fused carbazole, C-3 substituted
indoles and benzofuran derivatives.9 This strategy was found to be very efficient, atom economical
and environmentally friendly. Encouraged by these results, herein, we wish to report a simple,
convenient and highly efficient two stage domino approach for the synthesis of diverse tetracyclic
dibenzofuran derivatives starting from propargyl ethers of o-halo-phenol derivatives as the starting
materials. Our strategy is depicted in Scheme 1. The first stage of this domino strategy involves
intramolecular carbopalladation/Suzuki coupling of 2 to produce 3-methylene-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran
derivative 3. The reaction proceeds through an intramolecular syn-carbopalladation onto alkyne via a
5-exo-dig process produces a σ-alkylpalladium(II) intermediate, and subsequent intermolecular
Suzuki coupling with 2-formyl phenylboronic acid derivatives gave the bicyclic product 3 in a
stereoselective manner. In the second stage of this domino strategy, the compound 3 undergoes
Lewis acid mediated isomerisation to 3aa, followed by cyclization and aromatization reactions to
generate tetracyclic dibenzofuran 4. Significantly, the present method furnished wide range of
functionalized tetracyclic benzofuran derivatives in excellent regioselective manner.
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Scheme 1: The strategy of construction of substituted tetracyclic dibenzofuran system.
5
6
7
8
9
CHO
Ar
Ar
X
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Heck-Suzuki
FeCl3
Ar
O
Isomerisation/
cyclodehydration
O
O
2
3
4
-H2O
2-formyl phenyl
boronic acid
[Pd]
Ar
H
Ar
Ar
O
O
3bb
OH
O
3aa
O
Results and Discussion
First, we prepared a series of 2-halo propargyl ethers derivatives 2 through two different routes
(Scheme 2): a) reaction between 2-halo phenols and aryl propargyl bromide in the presence of K2CO3
in CH3CN or Mitsunobu reaction of 2-halo phenols with propargyl alcohols; b) a selective Sonogashira
cross-coupling of 1-bromo-(2-prop-2-ynyloxy)benzene derivatives with varieties of aryl iodides
(Scheme 2). We have found both methods to be reliable and reproducible for reactions on both small
and large scale in high yields.
Scheme 2. Preparation of intermediate 1-halo-(2-prop-2-ynyloxy)benzenederivatives.
i)
Ar
Br
Ar
iii) Ar-I, DMSO
Br
O
K2CO3, CH3CN, 60 oC
X
X
R1
R1
R1
Or
O
X= Br/I
2
OH
Pd(PPh3)4, CuI
Et3N, rt
ii)
Ar
PPh3, DCM, 0 oC-rt
DIAD
OH,
After having a series of 2-halopropargyl ethers, we investigated the synthesis of large array of
tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives via our previously developed two steps method as described in
scheme 3.9 At first, we carry out the domino Heck−Suzuki coupling between 2a and 2-formyl
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phenylboronic acid to prepare the intermediate compound 3a according to our previously developed
method using 5 mol% of Pd(OAc)2, 10 mol% of tricyclohexylphosphine (PCy3) as ligand, and 2.5 M
K2CO3 in combination with ethanol and toluene at 60 °C. Under these conditions, 3-Methylene-2,3-
dihydrobenzofuran 3a was obtained in 90% yield. In the next step, the compound 3a was dissolved in
1,2-dichloroethane and was added FeCl3 (10 mol%) at room temperature and it was observed that the
final isomerisation/cylisation and aromatization process took place efficiently and afforded tetracyclic
dibenzofuran 4a in 95% yield within a short period of time at room temperature.
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Scheme 3: Two steps preparation of tetracyclic dibenzofuran 4a.
Ph
CHO
FeCl3 (10 mol%)
2-formyl phenylboronic acid
Toluene, Pd(OAc)2
Ph
I
Ph
PCy3, K2CO3, 60 O
C
1,2-DCE, rt
O
O
O
4a
2a
3a
After that we intended to prepare a series of substrates 3b-3l through Heck-Suzuki coupling with 2-
formyl phenylboronic acid reactions under above said conditions. We noticed that in many cases a
mixture of non separable isomers were isolated. To avoid the separation process, we decided to
couple the above said two step domino strategies in one pot. Unfortunately, we observed that just
after completion of Heck-Suzuki coupling when we added iron(III)-salt or any other Lewis and
Brønsted acids directly to the reaction mixture no reaction took place. To our delight, we found that
when the crude intermediate 3a just after extraction with ethylacetate and removal of solvent, was
subjected to second stage domino reactions without purification in the presence of anhydrous FeCl3
(10 mol%), the final step domino reaction proceeded smoothly and gave the desired tetracyclic
compound 4a in 80% yield over two steps starting from 2a. Switching to other Lewis- or Brønsted
acids, such as FeCl3.6H2O, FeBr3, InCl3, AgOTf, AlCl3, ZnCl2, p-TsOH and TfOH to carry out this
transformation under similar conditions were proved to be less efficient with respect to time,
temperature and yields (Table 1). Various other solvents such as THF, toluene and acetonitrile were
also studied, but did not give the better results. Thus, anhydrous FeCl3 (10 mol%) in 1,2-
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dichloroethane was set as the standard reaction conditions for the further study without isolating
intermediate Heck-Suzuki products.
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Table 1. Optimization of reaction conditions for cycloisomerization and aromatization process of 3a to
4a.a
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Ph
Ph
B(OH)2
i)
Heck-Suzuki
I
CHO
+
ii) 1,2-DCE,
Catalyst
O
O
4a
2a
Temp (oC)
rt
Entry
1
Catalysts
FeCl3
Time (h)
Yield(%)
80
2
1
FeCl3,6H2O
70
58
65
62
2
60
1
FeBr3
InCl3
3
4
60
60
1.5
4
5
In(OTf)3
60
60
60
AgOTf
70
65
72
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2
p-TsOH
4
1
5
8
TfOH
AlCl3
ZnCl2
60
80
80
35c
9
6
6
10
11
20
n.r
CuCl
80
aReaction conditions: i) Substrate 2a ( 0.5 mmol), 2-formyl phenylboronic acid (0.75 mmol), Pd(OAc)2
(5 mol%), PCy3(10 mol%), toluene (2 mL), EtOH (2 mL), aq. K2CO3 (2.5M, 2 mL); ii) catalyst (10
mol%),1,2-dichloroethane (3 mL). c2.5 equ. AlCl3.
After developing the best reaction conditions using FeCl3 in 1,2-dichloroethane, we decided to study
the scope of this reaction on various substrates with different functional groups with crude Heck-
Suzuki products. Both electron-donating such as –Me, –OMe (Scheme 4, entries 4b, 4g, 4h, 4i and
4j) and withdrawing groups such as –Cl and –NO2 were well tolerated (Scheme 4, entries 4c and 4e)
and gave high yields of the desired tetracyclic ring in a two steps process. Interestingly, dibromo
bearing aryl.ethers 2e, when treated for domino Heck-Suzuki coupling reaction one of the halide
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participated for Heck-Suzuki and other one underwent only Suzuki with 2-formyl boronic acids which
subsequently transformed to the highly functionalized desired tetrcyclic product 4e in 60% yield in two
steps without affecting the other –CHO group. Alkyne unit bearing alkyl and aryl group also underwent
smooth conversion to the desired product in high yields. Moreover, varieties of functional groups such
as, -COMe, –OMe, and –Cl on aryl ring of alkyne were also survived for Heck-Suzuki coupling and
subsequent FeCl3-catalyzed cycloisomerization and dehydration reaction and gave good yields over
two steps. It is noteworthy that 2-thiophenyl unit on alkyne terminus also underwent smooth Heck-
Suzuki coupling and subsequent cyclization reactions to produce hybrid heterocycle 4h (Scheme 4) in
63% yield.
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Scheme 4. Synthesis of varieties of teteracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives.
Ar
i) Pd(OAc)2, Cy3P
B(OH)
Ar
2
X
K2CO3, Toluene
EtOH, H2O, 60 oC
R1
CHO
R1
+
O
O
2a-2l
4a-4l
ii)
FeCl3, 1,2-DCE
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Substrate
I
Products
Entry
1
Entry
Me
Product
C6H4-p-OMe
Substrate
Ph
C6H4-p-OMe
Ph
Br
O
Me
7
O
O
O
2g
4a
80%
2a
70%
4g
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Ph
Ph
Ph
S
Me
Br
S
Me
Cl
2
Me
Br
Me
8
O
O
4b
O
2h
O
4h
2b
75%
63%
Ph
C6H4-p-Cl-
C6H4-p-Cl
Cl
MeO
I
Br
MeO
3
9
O
O
O
4c
O
2c
65%
2i
65%
4i
C6H4-p-COMe
C6H4-p-COMe
I
C6H4-p-OMe
MeO
C6H4-p-OMe
4
Br
O
10
MeO
O
2d
O
4d
65%
O
Ph
2j
4j
O2N
60%
Ph
O2N
Br
O
C6H4-p-OMe
C6H4-p-OMe
5
I
O
OHC
60%
4e
11
12
Br
O
2e
2k
O
4k
85%
C6H4-p-Cl
Me
Me
C6H4-p-Cl
I
I
6
O
O
O
O
4f 70%
2l
2f
4l
60%
To demonstrate flexibility of this strategy, we also prepared a series of 2-halo propargylether of 2-
formyl benzene 2m-2o at the alkyne terminus (Table 2), so that any aryl boronic acid could be utilized
for domino Heck-Suzuki coupling reactions instead of 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid. Gratifyingly, we
observed that substrates 2m-2o also underwent smoothly to the above said two steps domino
strategies for the formation of tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives 4m-4q in 60-75% yields in two
steps (Table 2). For example, 2-naphthyl boronic acid underwent smooth conversion to produce
naphthyl bearing tetracyclic dibenzofuran ring structure 4o in 62% yield in overall two steps (Table 2,
entry 3). Pleasantly, we also succeeded in synthesizing pentacyclic indole fused dibenzobenzofuran
derivatives 4q from the substrate 2o via the above said two steps domino strategy in very good yields
(Table 2, entry 5) at 60 °C. Both indole and dibenzofuran are present in many biologically active
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natural products as well as pharmaceutically important substances; hence the hybrid structure 4q
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6
would be very interesting pharmaceutical agent.
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Table 2. Domino synthesis of polycyclic dibenzofuran with varities of aryl boronicacids.
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i) Arylboronic acid
Ar
Pd(OAc)2, Cy3P
K2CO3, toluene
X
R1
R1
CHO
ii) FeCl3, 1,2-DCE
O
O
2m-2o
4m-4q
Entry
1
Substrates
I
Products
C6H4 p-Me
CHO
CHO
O
4m
O
60%
2m
C6H4 p-OCH(Me)2
I
2
3
4
O
O
4n 65%
2m
2-naphthyl
I
CHO
O
4o
O
2m
62%
Ph
MeO
CHO
MeO
Br
O
4p
O
2n
55%
C6H4 p-OMe
OHC
I
Me
N
N
Me
O
5
4q
75%
O
2o
Next, we tried to synthesis the naturally occurring tetracyclic dibenzofuran, β-Brazan 5b. The
synthesis has been depicted in Scheme 5. When the substrate 2m was subjected to carbopalladation
and reduction, afforded the product 5a.Then the crude product was treated with FeCl3 (10 mol%), then
the desired tetracyclic product 5b was obtained in 62% yield in overall two steps. Our approach opens
a novel route to the synthesis of natural product and its derivatives containing substituted tetracyclic
dibenzofuran derivatives.
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Scheme-5: Synthetic strategy for the synthesis of β-Brazan 5b.
5
6
7
8
H
FeCl3
Pd(OAc)2, Cy3P
9
I
K2CO3, toluene
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60
1,2-DCE
80 oC
EtOH, H2O, 60 oC
O
CHO
O
OHC
5a
O
2m
5b,
62%
Finally, to make this strategy even more attractive, we also investigated FeCl3-catalyzed
cycloisomerization/aromatization of ketone 6a-6b. The strategy is described in Scheme 6. The ketone
functional group was introduced in the intermediate of Heck-Suzuki product 3a by simple two steps
reactions. First step involved reaction of alkyl Grignard reagents with 3a, then the intermediate
product without isolation was oxidized with Dess–Martin periodinane reagent to obtain 6a (R = Me) in
75% yield and 6b (R = Et) in 73% yield. Then when the substrates 6a-6b were treated with FeCl3 (10
mol%) in 1,2-dichloroethane at room temperature desired products 7a and 7b were obtained in 85%
and 78% yields, respectively. Thus, this result adds another dimension to the versatility of this
strategy.
Scheme 6: Synthesis of tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives.
R
Ph
O
CHO
FeCl3
i) RBr, Mg
O
O
ii) Dess-martin
periodinane
R
6a, R = Me, 75%
O
7a, R = Me, 3h, 85%
3a
6b, R = Et, 73%
7b, R = Et, 6h, 78%
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Scheme 7: A Plausible mechanism for the domino synthesis of fused dibenzofuran.
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Step-1: Domino Heck-Suzuki Coupling.
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Br
[Pd]
HO
R
OH
B
Pd
CHO
CHO
R
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Br
O
R
Pd(0)
CHO
R
O
2bb
O
2aa
O
3
2
Pd
Pd
R
CHO
R
CHO
Or
free roation
O
2cc
O
2dd
Step-2: Domino Cycloisomeriszation and aromatization.
C O FeCl3
R H
R
H
CHO
R
H+
R
FeCl3
H
O
O
3cc
O
O
O
O
FeCl3
H
FeCl3
3
3aa
3bb
-FeCl3
R
H
R
FeCl3
-H2O
O
O
OH
4
3dd
Based on our previous experimental observations and following the literatures a plausible reaction
pathway is delineated in Scheme 7. In Step-1, we propose a mechanism which involves oxidative
addition of Pd(0)/PCy3 with 2-halopropargyl ether 2 and followed by intramolecular syn-
carbopalladation onto the carbon-carbon triple bond leading to generation of alkenylpalladium
complex 2aa. Next, transmetallation between 2aa and aryl boronic acid in the presence of K2CO3
provides the intermediate 2bb, which upon reductive elimination produces the product 3 with syn-
configuration, and regenerates the catalyst for next catalytic cycles. Although the expected product in
this sequence is the syn-3 isomer, however, in many cases we have observed the formation of
mixture of syn- and anti-isomers. Presumably, the isomerization of syn-adduct to anti-adduct in the
carbopalladation step via the zwitterions intermediates 2cc or 2dd, and subsequent free rotation
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around carbon-carbon sigma bond is the major reason for the formation of mixture isomers. This type
of isomerization during carbopalladation of alkyne has also been reported in the literatures10 and in
our previous report.9 For the step-II, a preliminary study shows that FeCl3 did not initiate the
isomerization/cyclization process of substrate 3 without bearing a 2-formyl group under the said
reaction conditions and even heating at high temperature. Therefore, it was concluded that
isomerization leading to the intermediate 3bb must be driven by complexation of the carbonyl group
of 3 with FeCl3. Then, isomerization as shown in 3aa and protonation of 3bb, furnished the FeCl3-
bound intermediate 3cc, which underwent intramolecular Fridel-Crafts alkylation and subsequent
aromatization of 3dd by dehydration of water afforded the tetracyclic dibenzofuran 3, which is similar
to the mechanism involved in Bradsher reaction.11
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Conclusions
In summary, we have developed a simple and direct approach to access diverse range of
synthetically and biologically important tetracyclic dibenzofuran derivatives by palladium-catalyzed
domino carbopalladation/Suzuki coupling and subsequent iron(III)-catalyzed isomerization and
cyclodehydration reaction. The strategy was found to be general and displays a wide substrate scope,
good functional group tolerance, and provides moderate to high chemical yields. Moreover, this
strategy has also been utilized for the synthesis of naturally occurring β-Brazan. So, the present
method should have wide applications in organic and material chemistry.
Experimental Section :
1
General: H NMR spectra were recorded with a (300, 400 MHz) spectrometer as solutions in CDCl3.
Chemical shifts are expressed in parts per million (ppm, δ) and are referenced to CDCl3 (δ = 7.26) as
an internal standard. 13C{1H} NMR spectra were recorded with a 300 (75 MHz), 400 (100 MHz)
spectrometer as solutions in CDCl3. Chemical shifts of 13C{1H} NMR are expressed in parts per million
(ppm, δ) and are referenced to CDCl3 (δ = 77.0 ppm) as an internal standard. HRMS measurement
was done by ESI-TOF method.
Representative experimental procedure for the synthesis of propargylic ether (2a)
I
I
K2CO3
Ph
Br
CH3CN, 60 0C
OH
O
2a
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To a solution of compound 2-iodo phenol (220 mg, 1 mmol) in dry acetonitrile (3 mL) was added
phenyl propargyl bromide (213 mg, 1.1 mmol) and dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3 mmol ). The resulting
mixture was heated at 60 °C for 2 h. After the completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was
extracted with dichloromethane. The organic extract was washed with brine solution, dried over
anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated .The crude reaction product was purified by column
chromatography using silica gel (60-120 mesh) eluting with petroleum ether to obtain the product 2a
as a colourless viscous liquid (300 mg, 89%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 5.00 (s, 2H), 6.75 – 6.80
(m, 1H), 7.11 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.33 (s, 4H), 7.45 (s, 2H), 7.81 – 7.84 (m, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR
(CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 57.9, 83.5, 86.4, 87.7, 113.4, 122.2, 123.4, 128.3, 128.8, 129.4, 131.8, 139.7,
156.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C15H12IO [M+H]+ 334.9933; found 334.9930.
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2-bromo-4-methyl-1-((3-phenylprop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)benzene (2b): Compound 4-methyl 2-bromo
phenol (187 mg, 1 mmol) in dry acetonitrile was treated with phenyl propargyl bromide (213 mg, 1.1
mmol) and dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3 mmol ) as described for the synthesis 2a for 2 h to afford the
1
product 2b as a colourless viscous liquid (250mg, 0.83 mmol, 83%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ
2.28 (s, 3H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 7.03 – 7.07 (m, 2H), 7.27 – 7.33 (m, 3H), 7.39 (s, 1H), 7.41– 7.44 (m, 2H)
ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 20.2, 58.1, 83.6, 87.6, 112.4, 114.8, 122.3, 128.3, 128.8, 131.8,
132.6, 133.2, 132.6, 133.2, 133.9, 152.2 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C16H14BrO [M+H]+
301.0228; found 301.0227.
4-chloro-2-iodo-1-((3-phenylprop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)benzene (2c): Compound 4-chloro 2-iodo phenol
(255 mg, 1 mmol) in dry acetonitrile was treated with phenyl propargyl bromide (213 mg, 1.1 mmol)
and dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3 mmol ) as described for the synthesis 2a for 2 h to afford the product 2c as
1
a white solid (295 mg, 0.80 mmol, 80%), m.p. 64 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 4.96 (s, 2H), 7.01
(d, J = 8.8 Hz, 1H), 7.28 – 7.33 (m, 4H), 7.39 – 7.44 (m, 2H), 7.77 (d, J = 1.9 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR
(CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 58.2, 82.9, 87.0, 88.1, 113.9, 121.9, 127.3, 128.4, 128.9, 129.1, 131.8, 138.8,
139.1, 155.5 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C15H11ClIO [M+H]+ 368.9543; found 368.9542.
1-(4-(3-(2-iodophenoxy)prop-1-yn-1-yl)phenyl)ethanone (2d): Compound 2-iodo phenol (220 mg, 1
mmol) in dry acetonitrile was treated with 4-acetyl phenyl propargyl bromide (260 mg, 1.1 mmol) and
dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3 mmol ) as described for the synthesis 2a for 2 h to afford the product 2d as a
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colourless viscous liquid (320 mg, 0.85 mmol, 85%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.58 (s, 3H), 5.00
5
6
7
8
(s, 2H), 6.77 – 6.79 (m, 1H), 7.07 (dd, J = 1.2 Hz, 8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.30 – 7.34 (m, 1H), 7.49 (d, J = 8.4
Hz, 2H), 7.80 (dd, J = 1.6 Hz, 7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.88 (dd, J = 1.7 Hz, 6.8 Hz, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75
MHz): δ 26.6, 57.8, 86.7, 86.8, 113.3, 126.9, 128.2, 129.4, 131.9, 136.7, 139.8, 156.5, 197.2 ppm.
HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C17H14IO2 [M+H]+ 377.0038; found 377.0036.
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1,3-dibromo-5-nitro-2-((3-phenylprop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)benzene (2e): Compound 4-nitro 2,6- dibromo
phenol (295 mg, 1 mmol)in dry acetonitrile was treated with phenyl propargyl bromide (213 mg, 1.1
mmol) and dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3 mmol ) as described for the synthesis 2a for 2 h to afford the
1
product 2e as a yellow solid (37mg, 0.80 mmol, 80%), m.p. 98 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 5.15
(s, 2H), 7.27 – 7.40 (m, 5H), 8.43 (s, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 61.9, 82.2, 89.1, 119.4,
121.7, 127.6, 128.1, 128.3, 128.4, 128.9, 131.6, 144.5, 157.7 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C15H10Br2NO3 [M+H]+ 409.9027; found 409.9028.
1-(but-2-yn-1-yloxy)-2-iodobenzene (2f): Compound 2-iodo phenol (220 mg, 1 mmol) in dry
acetonitrile was treated with methyl propargyl bromide (163 mg, 1.1 mmol) and dry K2CO3 (414 mg, 3
mmol ) as described for the synthesis of 2a for 2 h to afford the product 2f as a colourless viscous
1
liquid (244 mg, 0.85 mmol, 85%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.85 (t, J = 2.3 Hz, 3H), 4.71 (q, J =
2.2 Hz, 2H), 6.70 – 6.76 (m, 1H), 6.99 (dd, J = 1.1 Hz, 8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.27–7.33 (m, 1H), 7.77 (dd, J =
1.5 Hz, 7.8 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ3.8, 57.6, 73.7, 84.3, 86.7, 113.1, 123.1, 124.5,
129.4, 139.6, 156.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF):cacld for C10H10IO [M+H]+ 272.9776; found 272.9775.
Representative experimental procedure for the synthesis of propargylic ether (2g):
I
Br
O
Br
O
Pd(PPh3)4, CuI
Et3N, DMSO, rt, 8h
Ar atm
OMe
2g
OMe
To a solution of 2-bromo-4-methyl-1-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)benzene (225 mg, 1.0 mmol), p-anisole (257
mg, 1.1 mmol) and triethyl amine (202 mg, 2.0 mmol) in DMSO (5 mL) were added CuI (4 mg, 0.02
equiv) and Pd(PPh3)4 (12 mg, 0.01 equiv) successively. The resulting mixture was stirred at room
temperature for 8 h under argon atmosphere. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC),
the crude reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The organic extract was washed with brine
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solution, dried over anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated. The product was subjected to column
chromatography (silica gel, 60-120 mesh), eluting with pet ether/EtOAc 98:2 (v/v) to afford the product
1
2g as a light yellow viscous liquid (300 mg, 0.9 mmol, 90%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.28 (s,
9
3H),3.80 (s, 3H), 4.94 (s, 2H), 6.81 (d, J = 8.8 Hz, 2H), 7.05 – 7.09 (m, 2H), 7.36 (d, J = 8.8 Hz, 3H)
ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 20.2, 55.3, 58.2, 82.3, 87.6, 112.3, 113.9, 114.3, 114.7, 128.8,
133.3, 133.9, 152.2, 159.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C17H16BrO2 [M+H]+ 331.0334; found
331.0331.
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2-(3-(2-bromo-4-methylphenoxy)prop-1-yn-1-yl)thiophene (2h): Compound 2-bromo-4-methyl-1-
(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)benzene (225 mg, 1.0 mmol) in DMSO was treated with 2-iodo thiophene (230 mg,
1.1 mmol), triethyl amine (202 mg, 2.0 mmol), CuI (4 mg, 0.02 equiv) and Pd(PPh3)4 (12 mg, 0.01
equiv) as described for the synthesis of 2g to afford the 2h as a light yellow viscous liquid (280 mg,
1
0.91 mmol, 91%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.28 (s, 3H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 6.95 – 6.99 (m, 1H), 7.02
(s, 1H), 7.08 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.21 (d, J = 3.5 Hz, 1H), 7.25 – 7.27 (m, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C
NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 20.2, 58.1, 80.9, 87.6, 112.4, 114.8,122.1, 126.9, 127.7, 128.8, 132.7,
132.8, 133.9, 152.1 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF):cacld for C14H12BrOS [M+H]+ 306.9792; found 306.9790.
2-bromo-1-((3-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)-4-methoxybenzene (2i): Compound 2-bromo-
4-methoxy-1-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)benzene (241 mg, 1.0 mmol) in DMSO was treated with 1-chloro-4-
iodobenzene (262 mg, 1.1 mmol) triethyl amine (202 mg, 2.0 mmol), CuI (4 mg, 0.02 equiv) and
Pd(PPh3)4 (12 mg, 0.01 equiv) as described for the synthesis of 2g to afford the 2i as a light yellow
1
viscous liquid (330 mg, 0.94 mmol, 94%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.78 (s, 3H), 4.93 (s, 2H),
6.85 (dd, J = 2.9 Hz, 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.10 (d, J = 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.16 (d, J = 2.9 Hz, 1H), 7.29 (d, J = 8.5
Hz, 2H), 7.37 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.8, 58.9, 84.8, 86.4, 113.6,
116.8, 118.9, 120.7, 128.7, 133.0, 134.8, 137.7, 148.5, 155.1 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C16H13BrClO2 [M+H]+ 350.9787; found 350.9785.
Representative experimental procedure for the synthesis of propargylic ether (2j):
MeO
Br
MeO
Br
O
MeO
DIAD, PPh3
DCM, 0 oC-rt
OH
OH
2j
OMe
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To an ice cooled solution of 4-methoxy-2-bromo phenol (203 mg, 1.0 mmol), p-methoxy phenyl
propargyl alcohol (195 mg, 1.2 mmol), PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in dry dichloromethane was added a
solution of di-isopropyl azo dicarboxylate (303 mg, 1.5 mmol) in dichoromethane under argon
atmosphere. Then the reaction was continued at room temperature for 28 h. After the completion of
the reaction (monitored by TLC) the reaction mixture was extracted with dichloromethane, dried over
anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude reaction product was purified by column
chromatography using silica gel (60-120 mesh) eluting with pet ether to afford the product 2j as a
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colourless viscous liquid (300 mg, 0.8 mmol, 81%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.76 (s, 3H), 3.80
(s, 3H), 4.91 (s, 2H), 6.81 – 6.84 (m, 3H), 7.09 – 7.13 (m, 2H), 7.34 – 7.40 (m, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR
(CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.2, 55.8, 59.0, 82.4, 87.6, 113.5, 113.7, 113.9, 114.3, 116.7, 118.8, 133.3,
148.6, 154.9, 159.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C17H16BrO3 [M+H]+ 347.0283; found 347.0282.
1-iodo-2-((3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)benzene (2k): Compound 2-iodo phenol (220
mg, 1.0 mmol), p-methoxy phenyl propargyl alcohol (194 mg, 1.2 mmol), PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in
dry dichloromethane was treated with di-isopropyl azo dicarboxylate (303 mg, 1.5 mmol) as described
for the synthesis of 2j for 28 h to afford the product 2k as a colourless viscous liquid (290 mg, 0.8
mmol, 80%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.78 (s, 3H), 4.97 (s, 2H), 6.75 (dt, J = 1.2 Hz, 7.6 Hz, 1H),
6.83 (d, J = 8.8 Hz, 2H), 7.08 – 7.11 (m, 1H), 7.30 – 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.80 (dd, J = 1.5 Hz, 7.8 Hz, 1H)
ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.3, 58.0, 82.2, 86.8, 87.7, 113.4, 113.9, 114.2, 123.3, 129.4,
133.4, 139.7, 156.7, 159.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C16H14IO2 [M+H]+ 365.0038; found
365.0035.
1-((3-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-2-yn-1-yl)oxy)-2-iodobenzene (2l): Compound 2-iodo phenol (220 mg,
1.0 mmol), p-chloro phenyl propargyl alcohol (200 mg, 1.2 mmol), PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in dry
DCM was treated with di-isopropyl azo dicarboxylate (303 mg, 1.5 mmol) as described for the
synthesis of 2j for 24 h to afford the product 2l as a colourless viscous liquid (276 mg, 0.75 mmol,
1
75%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 4.97 (s, 2H), 6.76 (dt, J = 1.3 Hz, 7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (dd, J = 1.2
Hz, 8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.28 – 7.31 (m, 2H), 7.34 – 7.37 (m, 3H), 7.81 (dd, J = 1.5 Hz, 7.8 Hz, 1H) ppm.13C
NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 57.8, 84.5, 86.6, 113.4, 120.7, 123.5, 128.7, 129.4, 133.1, 134.9, 139.7,
156.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C15H11CIIO [M+H]+ 368.9543; found 368.9541.
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2-(3-(2-iodophenoxy)prop-1-yn-1-yl)benzaldehyde (2m): Compound 2-iodo phenol (220 mg, 1.0
mmol), 2-(3-hydroxyprop-1-yn-1-yl)benzaldehyde (192 mg, 1.2 mmol), PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in
dry DCM was treated with di-isopropyl azo dicarboxylate (303 mg, 1.5 mmol) as described for the
synthesis of 2j for 20 h to afford the product 2m as a dark yellow viscous liquid (280 mg, 0.77 mmol,
77%).1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 5.04 (s, 2H), 6.77 (t, J = 7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (d, J = 9.1 Hz, 1H),
7.31 – 7.37 (m, 1H), 7.41 – 7.46 (m, 1H), 7.53 (d, J = 3.7 Hz, 2H), 7.80 (dd, J = 1.4 Hz, 7.8 Hz, 1H),
7.89 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1H), 10.4 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 57.7, 83.5, 86.9, 90.5, 113.4,
123.7, 125.4, 127.3, 129.2, 129.4, 133.5, 133.7, 136.3, 139.9, 156.4, 191.2 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF):
cacld for C16H12IO2 [M+H]+ 362.9882; found 362.9883.
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2-(3-(2-bromo-4-methoxyphenoxy)prop-1-yn-1-yl)benzaldehyde (2n): Compound 4-methoxy 2-
bromo phenol (203 mg, 1.0 mmol), 2-(3-hydroxyprop-1-yn-1-yl)benzaldehyde (192 mg, 1.2 mmol),
PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in dry dichloromethane was treated with di-isopropyl azo dicarboxylate (303
mg, 1.5 mmol)as described for the synthesis of 2j for 24 h to afford the product 2n as a dark yellow
viscous liquid (275 mg, 0.79 mmol, 79%).1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.79 (s, 3H), 5.02 (s, 2H), 6.86
(dd, J = 2.9 Hz, 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.11 (d, J = 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.17 (d, J = 2.9 Hz, 1H), 7.44 – 7.51 (m, 1H),
7.55 – 7.57 (m, 2H), 7.92 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.9, 58.9, 83.3, 90.9,
113.7, 116.9, 119.0, 125.5, 127.3, 128.3, 128.5, 129.1, 133.5, 133.7, 136.2, 148.3, 155.3, 191.3 ppm.
HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C17H13BrNaO3 [M+Na]+ 366.9946; found 366.9945.
2-(3-(2-iodophenoxy)prop-1-yn-1-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indole-3-carbaldehyde (2o): Compound 2-iodo
phenol (220 mg, 1.0 mmol), 2-(3-hydroxyprop-1-yn-1-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indole-3-carbaldehyde (255 mg,
1.2 mmol), PPh3 (393 mg, 1.5 mmol) in dry dichloromethane was treated with di-isopropyl azo
dicarboxylate (303 mg, 1.5 mmol) as described for the synthesis of 2j for 24 h to afford the product 2o
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as a dark yellow viscous liquid (290 mg, 0.70 mmol, 70%). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.76 (s, 3H),
5.14 (s, 2H), 6.80 (dt, J =1.3 Hz, 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.07 (dd, J = 1.3 Hz, 8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.30 – 7.39 (m, 4H),
7.82 (dd, J = 1.5 Hz, 7.8, 1H,), 8.27 – 8.30 (m, 1H), 10.0 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ
31.1, 57.6, 86.9, 95.4, 109.8, 113.4, 120.6, 122.2, 123.4, 123.6, 124.2, 125.3, 129.8, 130.2, 137.4,
139.9, 156.1, 184.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C19H15INO2 [M+H]+ 416.0147; found 416.0144.
Representative experimental procedurefor the two step synthesis of 11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-
b]benzofuran (4a):
CHO
ii
Ph
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Ph
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Synthesis of (3a):9a To a solution of 2a (167 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene (2 mL) and ethanol (2 mL)
were added aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) and Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025
mmol) successively. The resulting solution was stirred at 60 °C under argon atmosphere for 1 h. After
the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), the crude reaction mixture was extracted with
EtOAc. The organic extract was washed with brine solution, dried over anhydrous Na2SO4 and
concentrated. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), the solvent was evaporated
and the product was purified by column chromatography using silica gel ( 60-120 mesh), eluting with
pet ether/EtOAc to afford the product 3a as a light green solid (140 mg, 0.45 mmol, 90%), m.p. 189
°C. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 5.35–5.49 (m, 2H), 5.89 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1H), 6.53 (t, J = 7.6 Hz, 1H),
6.85 (d, J = 8.0 Hz,1H), 7.07 – 7.12 (m, 1H), 7.19 (d, J = 7.5 Hz, 2H), 7.28 – 7.39 (m, 4H), 7.57 (t, J =
7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.70 (t, J = 7.5 Hz, 1H), 8.07 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 10.16 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75
MHz): δ 56.8, 75.3, 110.7, 120.7, 124.2, 125.3, 127.6, 127.8, 127.9, 128.4, 128.7, 128.8, 129.0,
130.6, 131.3, 133.7, 134.3, 135.2, 137.1, 141.1, 144.8, 164.3, 192.0 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C22H17O2 [M+H]+ 313.1229; found 313.1228.
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Synthesis of (4a)9a: To a solution of compound 3a (94 mg, 0.3 mmol) in 1,2-dichloethane was added
anhydrous FeCl3 (5 mg, 0.03 mmol) under argon atmosphere at room temperature for 2 h to afford 4a
as a white solid (84 mg, 0.28 mmol, 95%), m.p. 102 °C. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 6.93 (d, J = 7.8
Hz, 1H), 7.08 (t, J = 7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.37 (m, 2H), 7.51–7.56 (m, 4H), 7.61–7.67 (m, 3H), 7.78 (d, J = 8.5
Hz, 1H), 7.96 (s, 1H), 8.03 (d, J = 8.3 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 106.4, 111.2, 122.4,
122.8, 123.5, 124.0, 124.2, 125.7, 126.2, 127.8, 128.0, 128.1, 128.9, 129.3, 130.0, 133.1, 134.2,
137.8, 154.2, 157.7 ppm. HRMS: cacld for C22H15O [M+H]+ 295.1123; found 295.1122. 154.1, 157.8,
197.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C24H17O2 [M+H]+ 295.1123; found 295.1121.
Representative experimental procedure for the synthesis of 11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-
b]benzofuran 4a without isolation of (3a):
Pd( OAc) , PCy ,
toluene, ethanol, H2O,
K2CO3, 60 oC
i)
B(OH)2
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O
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O
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To a solution of 2a (167 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene (2 mL) and ethanol (2 mL) were added 2-formyl
phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol)
and Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol) successively. The resulting solution was stirred at 60 °C under
argon atmosphere for 1 h. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), the crude reaction
mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The organic extract was washed with brine solution, dried over
anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude reaction mixture was dissolved in 1,2dichloroethane
(3 mL) and FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to it. The reaction was continued at rt for 2 h under
argon atmosphere. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC), the solvent was
evaporated and the product was purified by column chromatography using silica gel (60-120 mesh),
eluting with pet ether/EtOAc 98:2 (v/v) to afford the product 4a as a white solid (117 mg, 0.4 mmol,
80%).
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2-methyl-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4b): Compound 2b (151 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene
and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution
(2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki
step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h to
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afford 4b as a off white solid (115 mg, 0.37 mmol, 75%), m.p. 98 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ
2.27 (s, 3H), 6.68 (s, 1H), 7.21 – 7.26 (m, 1H), 7.36 – 7.44 (m, 2H), 7.50 – 7.55 (m, 3H), 7.63 (d, J =
6.5 Hz, 3H), 7.76 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H) 7.93 (s, 1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1H) ppm.13C NMR (CDCl3, 100
MHz): δ21.4, 106.4, 110.9, 123.1, 123.7, 124.1, 125.8, 126.4, 127.9, 128.1, 129.0, 129.1, 129.4,
130.1, 131.9, 134.2, 137.9, 154.6, 156.1 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C23H17O [M+H]+ 309.1279;
found 309.1276.
2-chloro-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4c): Compound 2c (184 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene
and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution
(2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki
step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 1 h to
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afford 4c as a off white solid (107 mg, 0.32 mmol, 65%), m.p. 145 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ
6.81 (d, J = 2.1 Hz, 1H), 7.34 –7.56 (m, 6H), 7.63 – 7.66 (m, 3H), 7.76 (d, J = 8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (s,
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1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.3 Hz, 1H) ppm.13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 106.6, 112.2, 122.6, 124.5, 125.6,
126.4, 127.8, 127.9, 128.5, 129.1, 129.8, 133.4, 134.8, 154.5, 156.0 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C22H14ClO [M+H]+ 329.0733; found 329.0732.
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1-(4-(naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran-11-yl)phenyl)ethanone (4d): Compound 2d (188 mg, 0.5 mmol) in
toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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2 h to afford 4d as a off white solid (108 mg, 0.32 mmol, 65%), m.p. 148 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300
MHz): δ 2.77 (s, 3H), 6.89 (d, J = 7.6Hz, 1H), 7.04 – 7.09 (m, 1H), 7.37 – 7.46 (m, 2H), 7.52 – 7.68
(m, 2H), 7.63 – 7.68 (m, 3H), 8.01 (t, J = 8.7 Hz, 2H), 8.24 (d, J = 8.3 Hz, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3,
75 MHz): δ 26.8, 107.0, 111.4, 122.6, 122.7, 123.3, 123.6, 124.6, 125.8, 125.9, 128.0, 128.4, 128.8,
128.9, 130.1, 132.7, 133.1, 136.9, 143.0, 154.1, 157.8, 197.9 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C24H17O2 [M+H]+ 337.1229; found 337.1228.
2-(2-nitro-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran-4-yl)benzaldehyde (4e): Compound 2e (206 mg,
0.5 mmol) in toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (186 mg, 1.25 mmol),
aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as
described for the Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was
added to the crude reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the
synthesis of 4a for 4 h at 60 °C to afford 4e as a light yellow solid (133 mg, 0.30 mmol, 60%), m.p.
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246 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz): δ 7.46 (dt, J = 0.8 Hz, 6.8 Hz, 1H), 7.52 – 7.60 (m, 4H), 7.69 –
7.75 (m, 4H), 7.79 – 7.84 (m, 3H), 7.93 (s, 1H), 8.00 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 8.15 – 8.18 (m, 1H), 8.37 (d,
J = 2.4 Hz, 1H), 9.95 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 107.6, 118.5, 121.8, 122.9, 124.5,
125.3, 126.6, 126.9, 128.1, 129.0, 129.3, 129.5, 129.6, 129.7, 131.5, 133.8, 134.1, 134.2, 135.9,
136.4, 136.9, 143.8, 154.6, 158.3, 190.7 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C29H18NO4 [M+H]+
444.1236; found 444.1233.
11-methylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4f): Compound 2f (136 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene and ethanol
was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL),
Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki step for the
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synthesis of 4a for 8 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction mixture in 1,2
dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h at room
tempetature to afford 4f as a white solid (81 mg, 0.35 mmol, 70%), m.p. 107 °C. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300
MHz): δ 3.12 (s, 3H), 7.35 – 7.41 (m, 1H), 7.48 – 7.59 (m, 4H), 7.77 (s, 1H), 7.94 – 7.97 (m, 1H), 8.19
– 8.25 (m, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 15.1, 104.9, 111.3, 122.6, 123.3, 123.6, 123.9,
124.0, 124.1, 124.8, 125.6, 127.6, 128.4, 129.2, 129.5, 133.2, 154.3, 157.5 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF):
cacld for C17H13O [M+H]+ 233.0966; found 233.0965.
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11-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4g): Compound 2g (165 mg, 0.5 mmol)
in toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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2 h at 60 °C to afford 4g as a white solid (118 mg, 0.35 mmol, 70%), m.p. 135 °C. H NMR (CDCl3,
300 MHz): δ 2.30 (s, 3H), 3.99 (s, 3H), 6.81 (s, 1H), 7.16 – 7.21 (m, 2H), 7.25 (d, J = 4.9 Hz, 1H), 7.35
– 7.45 (m, 4H), 7.49 (m, 1H), 7.79 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.91 (s, 1H), 7.99 (d, J= 8.2 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C
NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.4, 55.5, 106.2, 110.7, 114.3, 122.9, 123.8, 124.0, 124.1, 125.6, 126.3,
127.8, 128.9, 129.9, 131.2, 131.8, 133.1, 154.6, 156.0, 159.5 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C24H18NaO2 [M+Na]+ 361.1204; found 361.1205.
2-methyl-11-(thiophen-2-yl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4h): Compound 2h (154 mg, 0.5 mmol) in
toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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1.5 h at room temperature to afford 4h as a colourless viscous liquid (99 mg, 0.31 mmol, 63%). H
NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.35 (s, 3H), 7.03 (s, 1H), 7.23 (t, J = 8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.39 – 7.44 (m, 1H),
7.46 – 7.51 (m, 3H), 7.56 (d, J = 8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.88 (d, J = 8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.96 (s, 1H), 8.07 (d, J = 8.3
Hz, 1H), 8.41 (s, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 21.3, 111.3, 118.8, 120.9, 122.2, 122.6,
123.9, 124.9, 125.3, 126.2, 127.6, 128.7, 129.6, 131.5, 132.5, 138.4, 140.7, 144.2, 153.9 ppm. HRMS
(ESI-TOF): cacld for C21H15OS [M+H]+ 315.0844; found 315.0843.
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11-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-methoxynaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4i): Compound 2i (175 mg, 0.5 mmol)
in toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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8 h at 60 °C to afford 4i as a white solid (116 mg, 0.32 mmol, 65%),m.p. 85 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300
MHz): δ 3.68 (s, 3H), 6.44 (d, J = 2.4 Hz, 1H), 7.03 (dd, J = 2.5 Hz, 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.39 – 7.49 (m, 4H),
7.53 – 7.58 (m, 1H), 7.65 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 2H), 7.73 (d, J = 8.4 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (s, 1H), 8.02 (d, J = 8.2
Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.6, 106.5, 106.8, 111.7, 115.5, 123.8, 124.2, 124.4,
125.8, 127.9, 128.9, 129.1, 131.7, 132.5, 133.1, 134.3, 136.1, 152.4, 154.8, 155.4 ppm. HRMS (ESI-
TOF): cacld for C23H16ClO2 [M+H]+ 359.0839 ; found 359.0840.
2-methoxy-11-(4-methoxyphenyl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4j): Compound 2j (174 mg, 0.5
mmol) in toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq.
K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described
for the Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 3 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the
crude reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of
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4a for 1 h at 60 °C to afford 4j as a white solid (106 mg, 0.30 mmol, 60%), m.p. 104 °C. H NMR
(CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.64 (s, 3H), 3.96 (s, 3H), 6.49 (d, J = 2.5 Hz, 1H), 6.99 (dd, J = 2.6 Hz, 8.8 Hz,
1H), 7.17 (d, J = 8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.35 – 7.45 (m, 4H), 7.49 – 7.54 (m, 1H), 7.79 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.90
(s, 1H), 7.99 (d, J = 8.3 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.4, 55.6, 106.2, 106.7, 106.7,
111.4, 114.2, 115.2, 124.0, 124.1, 125.6, 126.2, 127.8, 129.4, 129.7, 131.3, 133.2, 133.9, 152.3,
154.9, 155.2, 159.5 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C24H19O3 [M+H]+ 355.1334; found 355.1331.
11-(4-methoxyphenyl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4k): Compound 2k (182 mg, 0.5 mmol) in
toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 1 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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2 h at room temperature to afford 4k as a white solid (138 mg, 0.43 mmol, 85%), m.p. 128 °C. H
NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.99 (s, 3H), 7.01 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.08 (m, 1H), 7.17 (d, J = 8.5 Hz,
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2H), 7.36 – 7.45 (m, 4H), 7.50 – 7.55 (m, 2H), 7.80 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (s, 1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.2
Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.4, 106.2, 111.2, 114.3, 122.4, 122.9, 123.8, 124.2,
125.7, 125.7, 126.3, 127.8, 127.9, 129.7, 129.9, 1312.2, 133.2, 134.0, 154.2, 157.7, 159.5 ppm.
HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C23H16NaO2 [M+Na]+ 347.1048; found 347.1049.
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11-(4-chlorophenyl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4l): Compound 2l (184 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene
and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution
(2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki
step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
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room temperature to afford 4l as a white solid (98 mg, 0.30 mmol, 60%), m.p. 190 °C. H NMR
(CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 6.97 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.08 – 7.13 (m, 1H), 7.37 – 7.47 (m, 4H), 7.53 (t, J = 7.8
Hz, 2H), 7.63 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 2H), 7.70 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.96 (s, 1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1H) ppm.
13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 106.8, 111.4, 122.5, 122.7, 123.6, 123.7, 124.5, 125.8, 127.9, 128.3,
129.1, 129.3, 131.5, 132.6, 133.1, 134.2, 136.2, 154.1, 157.7 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C22H14ClO [M+H]+ 329.0733; found 329.0734.
11-(p-tolyl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4m): Compound 2m (181 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene and
ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5
M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki step
for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 1 h at 60
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°C to afford 4m as a white solid (92 mg, 0.30 mmol, 60%), m.p. 144 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ
2.57 (s, 3H), 6.98 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.07 (t, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.35 – 7.46 (m, 6H), 7.52 (t, J = 7.8 Hz,
2H), 7.79 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (s, 1H), 8.01 (d, J = 8.3 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ
21.5, 106.2, 11.2, 122.4, 122.9, 123.6, 124.1, 124.2, 125.7, 126.4, 127.8, 127.9, 1 29.5, 129.6, 129.9,
133.2, 134.4, 134.7, 137.8, 154.2, 157.7 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C23H17O [M+H]+ 309.1279;
found 309.1280.
11-(4-isopropoxyphenyl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4n): Compound 2m (181 mg, 0.5 mmol) in
toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3
solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the
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Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 1.5 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude
reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for
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1 h at room temperature to afford 4n as a white solid (115 mg, 0.32 mmol, 65%), m.p. 116 °C. H
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NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.48 (d, J = 6.0 Hz, 6H), 4.71 – 4.77 (m, 1H), 7.05 – 7.09 (m, 2H), 7.14 (d,
J = 8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.39 – 7.44 (m, 4H), 7.49 – 7.55 (m, 2H), 7.82 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.93 (s, 1H), 8.01
(d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ22.2, 70.1, 106.2, 111.2, 111.6, 116.2, 121.3,
122.4, 123.8, 124.1, 124.2, 125.7, 126.4, 127.8, 127.9, 128.4, 129.6, 129.7, 131.2, 133.2, 134.2,
154.2, 157.7, 157.8 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C25H21O2 [M+H]+ 353.1542; found 353.1540.
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11-(naphthalen-2-yl)naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4o): Compound 2m (181 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene
and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution
(2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki
step for the synthesis of 4a for 1.5 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h at
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room temperature to afford 4o as a white solid (107 mg, 0.31 mmol, 62%), m.p. 140 °C. H NMR
(CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 6.90 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 6.98 (t, J = 7.2 Hz, 1H), 7.38 – 7.43 (m,2H), 7.53 – 7.57
(m, 2H), 7.61 – 7.67 (m, 3H), 7.81 (d, J = 8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (d, J = 7.4 Hz, 1H), 8.01 – 8.07 (m, 4H),
8.13 (d, J = 8.4 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 106.6, 111.3, 122.5, 122.9, 123.7, 124.0,
124.3, 125.8, 126.3, 127.9, 128.0, 128.1, 128.2, 128.7, 129.1, 129.5, 133.1, 133.2, 133.7, 134.0,
135.3, 154.3, 157.8 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C26H17O [M+H]+ 345.1279; found 345.1276.
2-methoxy-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (4p): Compound 2n (172 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene
and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg, 0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution
(2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05 mmol) as described for the Suzuki
step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%) was added to the crude reaction
mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h at
room temperature to afford 4p as a white solid (89 mg, 0.27 mmol, 55%), m.p. 96 °C. 1H NMR (CDCl3,
300 MHz): δ 3.61 (s, 3H), 6.37 (d, J = 2.5, 1H), 7.01 (dd, J = 2.7 Hz, 8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.38– 7.46 (m, 2H),
7.52– 7.58 (m, 3H), 7.61– 7.69 (m, 3H), 7.80 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.94 (s, 1H), 8.03 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1H)
ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 55.5, 106.3, 106.4, 111.5, 115.6, 124.2, 124.5, 125.7, 126.2,
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127.8, 128.1, 128.9, 130.2, 133.2, 134.1, 137.7, 152.4, 154.9, 155.3 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C23H17O2 [M+H]+ 325.1229; found 325.1228.
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2-methoxy-12-(4-methoxyphenyl)-11-methyl-11H-benzofuro[3,2-b]carbazole (4q): Compound 2o
(207 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene and ethanol was treated with 2-formyl phenyl boronic acid (112 mg,
0.75 mmol), aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05
mmol) as described for the Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 2 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10 mol%)
was added to the crude reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization step for
the synthesis of 4a for 3 h at 60 °C to afford 4q as an off white solid (153 mg, 0.38 mmol, 75%), m.p.
178 °C. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 3.39 (s, 3H), 3.98 (s, 3H), 6.79 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.01 – 7.06
(m, 1H), 7.10 – 7.13 (m, 2H), 7.23 – 7.28 (m, 1H), 7.31 – 7.38 (m, 2H), 7.46 – 7.55 (m, 4H), 8.16 –
8.20 (m, 2H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 32.3, 55.4, 100.8, 108.6, 111.2, 114.0, 118.6, 118.7,
120.2, 121.9, 122.0, 122.6, 122.8, 123.8, 125.2, 126.2, 126.4, 129.4, 131.6, 135.6, 143.0, 150.4,
157.1, 159.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C26H20NO2 [M+H]+ 378.1494; found 378.1492.
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naphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (5b)12: Compound 2m (181 mg, 0.5 mmol) in toluene and ethanol was
treated with aq. K2CO3 solution (2.5 M, 2 mL), Pd(OAc)2 (6 mg, 0.025 mmol), PCy3 (14 mg, 0.05
mmol) as described for the Suzuki step for the synthesis of 4a for 1.5 h and then FeCl3 (8 mg, 10
mol%) was added to the crude reaction mixture in 1,2-dichloroethane as described for the cyclization
step for the synthesis of 4a for 1 h at 80 °C to afford 5b as a white solid (77 mg, 0.31 mmol, 62%),
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m.p. 205 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 7.35 – 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.46 – 7.59 (m, 4H), 7.92 (s, 1H),
7.97 (d, J = 7.83, 1H), 8.02 – 8.08 (m, 2H), 8.41 (s, 1H) ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C16H11O
[M+H]+ 219.0810; found 219.0808.
General representative procedure for the Synthesis of (E)-1-(2-(benzofuran-3(2H)-
ylidene(phenyl)methyl)phenyl)ethanone (6a): Mg (18 mg, 0.75 mmol) was taken in a two necked
round bottom flask and heated with a spirit lamp for 15 minutes. Then one granules of iodine was
added to it and heated on an oil bath at 140 °C for 15 minutes and cooled to room temperature.
Methyl iodide (106 mg, 0.75 mmol) in diethyl ether (5 mL) was added to the activated Mg and refluxed
for 30 minutes and cooled to room temperature. Then compound 3a (156 mg, 0.5 mmol) in diethyl
ether (5 mL) was added and the reaction was continued at room temperature for 30 minutes. After the
completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC) the reaction mixture was quenched with aq. NH4Cl and
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extracted with diethyl ether, dried over anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude alcohol was
dissolved in dichloromethane (5 mL) and Dess–Martin periodinane (318 mg, 0.75 mmol) was added.
The reaction was continued at room temperature for 30 minutes. After the completion of the reaction
(monitored by TLC) the reaction mixture was extracted with dichloromethane, dried over anhydrous
Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude reaction mixture was purified by column chromatography using
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silica gel (60-120 mesh) to afford the product 6a as a green viscous liquid (122 mg, 0.37 mmol). H
NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.34 (s, 3H), 5.33 (d, J = 14.8 Hz, 1H), 5.50 (d, J = 14.8 Hz, 1H), 6.56 –
6.61 (m, 1H), 6.87 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1H), 7.08 – 7.14 (m, 1H), 7.22 – 7.28(m, 3H), 7.33 – 7.41 (m, 4H),
7.50 – 7.62 (m, 2H), 7.82 (dd, J = 1.3 Hz, 7.6 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 29.0, 75.4,
110.4, 120.3, 124.1, 125.9, 127.3, 128.0, 128.2, 128.3, 129.4, 129.9, 131.6, 131.8, 132.3, 133.9,
139.4, 140.2, 140.9, 164.0, 200.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C23H19O2 [M+H]+ 327.1385; found
327.1386.
(E)-1-(2-(benzofuran-3(2H)-ylidene(phenyl)methyl)phenyl)propan-1-one (6b): Mg (18 mg, 0.75
mmol) was taken in a two necked round bottom flask and heated with a spirit lamp for 15 minutes.
Then one granules of iodine was added to it and heated on an oil bath at 140 °C for 15 minutes and
cooled to room temperature. Ethyl bromide (81 mg, 0.75 mmol) in THF (5 mL) was added to the
activated Mg and stirred at room temperature until colour change of the reaction mixture took place.
Then compound 3a (156 mg, 0.5 mmol) in THF (5 mL) was added and the reaction was continued at
room temperature for 30 minutes. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC) the
reaction mixture was quenched with aq. NH4Cl and extracted with diethyl ether, dried over anhydrous
Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude alcohol was dissolved in DCM (5 mL) and Dess–Martin
periodinane (318 mg, 0.75mmol) was added. The reaction was continued at room temperature for 30
minutes. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC) the reaction mixture was extracted
with DCM, dried over anhydrous Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude reaction mixture was purified
by column chromatography using silica gel (60-120 mesh) to afford the product 6b as a green viscous
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liquid (124 mg, 0.36 mmol). H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 0.78 – 0.88 (m, 3H), 2.58 – 2.69 (m, 2H),
5.27 (d, J = 14.7 Hz, 1H), 5.45 (d, J = 14.7 Hz, 1H), 6.11 (d, J = 7.7Hz, 1H), 6.57 – 6.62 (m, 1H), 6.83
(d., J = 8.0 Hz, 1H), 7.05 – 7.11 (m, 1H), 7.18 – 7.40 (m, 5H), 7.48 – 7.55 (m, 3H), 7.71 (d, J = 7.3,
1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 8.10, 34.4, 110.4, 120.3, 124.2, 125.9, 127.3, 127.9, 128.3,
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128.6, 128.8, 129.9, 131.6, 131.7, 133.9, 139.9, 141.0, 164.0, 204.1 ppm. HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for
C24H21O2 [M+H]+ 341.1542; found 341.1543.
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Representative experimental procedure for the synthesis of 6-methyl-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-
b]benzofuran (7a): To a solution of compound 6a (98 mg, 0.3 mmol) in dry 1,2-dichloroethane (3 mL)
was added anhydrous FeCl3 (5 mg, 10 mol%) and the reaction was continued at room temperature for
3 h under argon atmosphere. After the completion of the reaction (monitored by TLC) the solvent was
evaporated and the crude reaction mixture was purified by column chromatography using silica gel
(60 -120 mesh) eluting with pet ether/EtOAc to obtain the product 7a as a white solid (78 mg, 0.25
mmol, 85%), m.p. 176 °C. 1H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 2.97 (s, 3H), 6.90 (d, J = 7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.03 –
7.08 (m, 1H), 7.39 –7.44 (m, 2H), 7.49–7.55 (m, 2H), 7.56 – 7.64 (m, 5H), 7.79 (d, J = 8.5, 1H), 8.19
(d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H) ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 11.2 , 111.2, 113.7, 122.3, 122.8, 122.9, 13.6,
123.8, 124.6, 125.4, 126.8, 127.9, 128.0, 128.9, 129.4, 130.3, 131.8, 132.1, 138.1, 15.4, 157.6 ppm.
HRMS (ESI-TOF): cacld for C23H17O [M+H]+ 309.1279; found 309.1277.
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6-ethyl-11-phenylnaphtho[2,3-b]benzofuran (7b): Compound 6b (102 mg, 0.3 mmol) in dry 1,2-
dichloroethane was treated with FeCl3 (5 mg, 10 mol%) at room temperature for 6h to obtain the
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product 7b as a white solid (75 mg, 0.23 mmol, 78%), m.p. 96 °C. H NMR (CDCl3, 300 MHz): δ 1.52
(t, J = 7.5 Hz, 3H), 3.54 (q, J = 7.5 Hz, 2H), 6.91 (d, J = 7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.04 – 7.09 (m, 1H), 7.38 – 7.45
(m, 2H), 7.51 – 7.54 (m, 2H), 7.57 – 7.68 (m, 5H), 7.82(d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H), 8.25 (d, J = 8.5 Hz, 1H)
ppm. 13C NMR (CDCl3, 75 MHz): δ 14.8, 19.1, 111.2, 120.2, 122.3, 122.8, 122.9, 123.5, 123.7, 124.6,
125.4, 127.0, 127.9, 128.0, 128.9, 129.7, 130.3, 131.2, 131.9, 138.2, 151.9, 157.6 ppm. HRMS (ESI-
TOF): cacld for C24H19O [M+H]+ 323.1436; found 323.1435.
Acknowledgements:
K. P. and S. J. are thankful to the CSIR, New Delhi, India, for their fellowships. S. K. is thankful to
UGC, India for his fellowship. The X-ray diffractometer facility under the DST-FIST program of
Department of Chemistry (JU) is also gratefully acknowledged.
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Supporting Information availability statement:
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1H and 13C NMR spectra of compounds 2a-2o, 3a, 4a-4q, 6a-6b, 7a-7b, 1H NMR spectra of 5b and X-
ray crystal structure of 4a. This material is available free of charge via the Internet at
http://pubs.acs.org.
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