'On Water'-Promoted Three-Component Tandem Michael Addition/D-A Cycloaddition Reaction to Construct Polycyclic N-Heterocycles Derivatives

'On Water'-promoted the three-component tandem Michael addition/D-A cycloaddition reaction in 80 degrees C at 3 h has been developed without employing any catalyst and organic solvent. The process allows facile access to polycyclic N-heterocycles derivatives contain indole and maleimide from easily accessible starting materials in moderate to high yields (up to 91 %). Compared with conventional reaction conditions, this reaction not only improves the reaction efficiency and rate but also minimizes the side reaction.

Automated summary

In this study, a three-component tandem Michael addition/D-A cycloaddition reaction was successfully carried out without using any catalyst or organic solvent at 80°C in water. This reaction provides an easy access to polycyclic N-heterocycles derivatives containing indole and maleimide from readily available starting materials with moderate to high yields (up to 91%). Compared to conventional reaction conditions, this reaction not only enhances the efficiency and rate but also reduces the occurrence of side reactions.