Synthesis of Quinone Methide Substituted Neonicotinoid Derivatives via 1,6-Conjugate Addition of N‑Benzyl Nitro Ketene Aminals with para-Quinone Methides Accompanying Oxidation

A concise and efficient route for the synthesis of quinone methide substituted neonicotinoid derivatives (4–5) via the one-pot Cs2CO3-catalyzed 1,6-conjugate addition of N-benzyl nitro ketene amines (2) or 1,1-enediamines (3) with para-quinone methides (1) in acetone and an oxidation reaction using atmospheric oxygen has been developed. This protocol represents a route to obtain a novel class of quinone methide substituted neonicotinoid derivatives in a concise, rapid, and practical manner. This reaction is particularly attractive because of the following features: low-cost and biocompatible solvent, mild temperature, atomic economy, high yields, and potential biological activity of the product.