DBU-Catalyzed, facile and efficient method for synthesis of spirocyclic 2-oxindole derivatives with incorporated 6-amino-4H-pyridazines and fused derivatives via [3+3] atom combination

3-Cyanomethylidene oxindole derivatives were prepared in excellent yields utilizing DBU-promoted Knoevenagel condensation of isatin derivatives with active methylene reagents. The isolated products were then reacted with azaenamines via a DBU-promoted Michael addition to yield spirocyclic 2-oxindole derivatives with incorporated 6-amino-4H-pyridazines and their fused derivatives. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.