Synthesis of Indeno[1,2-c]furans via a Pd-Catalyzed Bicyclization of 2-Alkynyliodobenzene and Propargylic Alcohol

A general and efficient synthesis of indeno[1,2]furans via a Pd-catalyzed bicyclization reaction between 2-alkynyliodobenzenes and propargylic: alcohols is described. The procedure furnishes indeno[1,2]furans with moderate to excellent yields (51%-78%) and a broad substrate scope. The cascade process combines the formation of one C-O bond and two C-C bonds in a single step.