Electrophilic Carbocyclization of Aryl Propargylic Alcohols: A Facile Synthesis of Diiodinated Carbocycles and Heterocycles

Diiodinated carbocycles and oxygen heterocycles can be readily synthesized by electrophilic carbocyclization of aryl propargylic alcohols in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. The resulting diiodide can be further exploited by subsequent oxidizing and coupling reactions. Both the iodine anion and cation generated from I2 are used effectively. The presence of a trace amount of water is essential for this electrophilic cyclization.