Stereoselective three-component synthesis of trans-endo-decahydroquinolin-4-one derivatives from aldehydes, aniline, and acetylcyclohexene

The diastereoselective synthesis of trans-endo-decahydroquinolin-4-one ( 4) via a three-component reaction of aldehydes ( 1), anilines ( 2), and 1-acetylcyclohexene ( 3) in the presence of iodine in a one-pot reaction at room temperature is described. The short reaction time, easy workup, excellent yield, and mild reaction conditions make this novel annulation strategy both practical and attractive.