Convenient synthesis of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines via direct intramolecular reductive ring closure

A simple and convenient procedure for the synthesis of 3-aryl- 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines is reported. 3-Aryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines are directly obtained by reductive ring closure of 2-phenyl-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-propionitrile derivatives in moderate to high yields. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.