Stereoselective synthesis 3-alkylideneoxindoles by rhodium-catalyzed cyclization reaction of 2-alkynylaryl isocyanates with aryl- and alkenylboronic acids

The rhodium-catalyzed cyclization reaction of 2-alkynylaryl isocyanates with aryl- and alkenylboronic acids furnishes 3-alkylideneoxindoles in a stereoselective manner. The reaction allows arrangement of various substituents on the exocyclic double bond and aromatic ring with wide functional tolerance.