2-Iodoisatogens: Versatile Intermediates for the Synthesis of Nitrogen Heterocycles

A Cu-promoted cyclization of 2-nitrophenyl iodoacetylenes provides a direct route to a range of 2-iodoisatogens. These compounds represent useful intermediates for the late-stage elaboration of the C-I bond to furnish isatins and a range of alternative heterocyclic products.