Synthesis of Benzopyridoindolone Derivatives via a One-Pot Copper Catalyzed Tandem Reaction of 2‑Iodobenzamide Derivatives and 2‑Iodobenzylcyanides

An efficient approach for the synthesis of benzo-fused pyridoindolone derivatives via a one-pot copper catalyzed tandem reaction of 2-iodobenzamides with 2-iodobenzylcyanides has been developed. Using this protocol, benzo-fused pyridoindolone derivatives are obtained in high yields in a relatively short period of time under mild reaction conditions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach where one can synthesize free indole N–H benzo-fused pyridoindolones. Also, both indole and pyridone cores are constructed during the course of the reaction. The methodology shows good functional group tolerance and allows synthesis of thiophene-fused pyridoindolones and fused indolobenzonaphthyridone derivatives.