Published as part of the Bürgenstock Special Section 2019 Future Stars in Organic Chemistry
Key words tropone - α-haloamide - azaoxyallyl cation - cycloaddition - DFT computations
The framework of tropones, which are non-benzenoid aromatic seven-membered rings,
can be found in manifold natural and bioactive molecules, triggering substantial efforts
towards the synthesis of these motifs.[1 ] However, it does not represent an end in itself as tropones have also recently emerged
as fascinating partners for cycloadditions, notably for high-order cycloadditions
(HOC) such as [6+6], [8+3], or [8+2], which still remain clearly underexplored in
synthesis.[2 ] Besides, tropones are not the only cycloaddition partner to have made a breakthrough
in the last decade; we can also cite azaoxyallyl cations that can be easily formed
from α-haloamides in the presence of a common base.[3 ]
[4 ] Azaoxyallyl cations are typically viewed as a zwitterionic 1,3-dipoles even if their
structures are in fact closer to an aziridinone or an oxiran-2-imine.[4a,j ] In this context, our idea was to combine these two entities to access unprecedented
[7,6]-fused heterocycles through a formal [8+3]-annulation in a metal-free transformation.
Indeed, based on their history, we postulated that azaoxyallyl cations might react
differently with tropones than other 1,3-dipoles. For instance, the group of Jeffrey
demonstrated that azaoxyallyl cations could react with acroleins to generate the corresponding
4-oxazolidinones with the alkene moiety remaining intact (Scheme [1a ]).[4d ] On the other hand, Fernandez and Sierra reported a tin(IV)-catalyzed [8+3]-cycloaddition
between tropones and donor-acceptor cyclopropanes through a mechanism involving a
stepwise sequence (Scheme [1b ]).[2e ] Thus, we envisioned that a reaction between tropone and an azaoxyallyl cation would
lead to the corresponding 4-oxazolidinone 3 and a subsequent [1,2]-shift could provide either 4 and/or 4′ as products (Scheme [1c ]). Herein, we report our findings on this transformation along with DFT computations
to gain insight into its mechanism.
Scheme 1 [8+3] Annulation between tropone and azaoxyallyl cation
Table 1 Reaction Optimization for the Reaction between Tropone (1 ) and α-Haloamide 2a
a
Entry
Base
Temp (°C)
Time (h)
Yield 4a (%)
Yield 4′a (%)
1
K2 CO3
20
3
33
4
2
Na2 CO3
20
3
53
10
3
Cs2 CO3
20
3
40
7
4
Et3 N
20
3
60
8
5b
Et3 N
20
3
39
4
6
DABCO
20
3
16
2
7
DIPEA
20
3
44
8
8
DBU
20
3
50
7
9c
Et3 N
20
3
13
11
10d
Et3 N
20
3
28
2
11e
Et3 N
20
3
45
4
12f
Et3 N
20
3
59
7
13
Et3 N
20
16
71
9
14
Et3 N
0
16
58
4
a Reaction conditions: tropone (1 ; 1 equiv), α-haloamide 2a (2 equiv), and base (2.5 equiv) in HFIP (0.2 M) at the indicated temperature for
the indicated time.
b α-Haloamide 2a (1 equiv) and base (1.5 equiv).
c Concentration: 0.4 M.
d Concentration: 0.1 M.
e In the presence of MgSO4 .
f In the presence of 4Å molecular sieves.
In our initial studies, we investigated the reactivity of tropone (1 ) towards α-haloamide 2a in hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) at a concentration of 0.2 M (Table [1 ]). Indeed, because of its intrinsic properties such as hydrogen-donor ability combined
with a high dielectric constant,[5 ] HFIP represents a solvent of choice to stabilize azaoxyallyl cations. As mentioned
in the introduction, the formation of azaoxyallyl cations can be easily achieved in
the presence of a base, prompting us to screen several common organic and inorganic
bases as promoters (Table [1 ], entries 1–8). We were pleased to find that triethylamine could afford the desired
products 4a and 4′a in 60% and 8% yield, respectively, within 3 hours (entry 4). Interestingly, the spiro
compound 3a was also detected as a minor product (5%). The structure of the major product 4a was corroborated by X-ray crystallography (Figure [1 ]). Importantly, the reaction had to be carried out in the presence of 2 equivalents
of 2a , as the yield of 4a sharply dropped to 39% with only 1 equivalent because of a competitive hydrolysis
of the α-haloamide. It is noteworthy that the concentration of the reaction is a critical
factor for its success as decreasing or increasing it derailed the transformation
(entries 9, 10), essentially leading to the decomposition of the substrates. The influence
of drying agents such as molecular sieves and MgSO4 was also examined but no significant improvement was observed (entries 11, 12). On
the other hand, we noticed that the yields could be slightly improved by conducting
the reaction for a longer reaction time so that the complete disappearance of the
spiro compound was observed (entry 13). As a final point, it is important to emphasize
that the ratio between 4a and 4′a was identical before and after purification by flash column chromatography.
Figure 1 ORTEP drawing of compound 4a . Thermal ellipsoids are shown at 30% probability level.
Under the optimal reaction conditions, we sought to explore the scope of the reaction,
notably the reactivity of tropone (1 ) with a series of α-haloamides (Table [2 ]). Replacing the benzyl substituent by a methyl, tert -butyl, or allyl group did not affect the transformation, providing the targeted products
in good yields and selectivities (Table [2 ], entries 1–4). Nevertheless, in the latter case, the reaction afforded 4d in 75% yield with a complete control of the selectivity. To our delight, in the case
of 2b , we succeeded to obtain X-ray characterizations of both 4b and 4′b , confirming unambiguously the structure of the minor compound 4′b . Surprisingly, with a phenyl substitution, the other isomer 4′e was isolated as a sole product in 47% yield (entry 5). On the other hand, in the
case of a cyclohexyl tether, the reaction occurred at a slower rate, delivering 4-oxazolidinone
3f as a major product (64%) after 3 hours (entry 6). By increasing the reaction time
(36 h), we succeeded to observe the almost complete transformation of 3f into compounds 4f and 4′f . While the overall yield is excellent, the selectivity remained not satisfying (entry
7). During our investigations, we also evaluated the reactivity of α-haloamide 2g , bearing chlorine substituents, which gave exclusively the spiro compound 3g in 48% yield without any further transformation (entry 8). We hypothesized that the
electron-withdrawing nature of the substituents precluded any [1,2]-shift and, thus,
the reaction was shut down at the first step. In addition, the reaction was also compatible
with a secondary bromide such as 2h to generate the corresponding diastereoisomers 4h , whose configurations were ascertained by NOESY analysis (see the Supporting Information
for details), in 32% and 12% yield, respectively (entry 9). However, in the case of
2i , no reaction occurred, as the azaoxyallyl cation formed might be less electrophilic
to trigger the transformation (entry 10).
a ORTEP drawings of compounds 4b and 4′b . Thermal ellipsoids are shown at 30% probability level.
Gratifyingly, the reaction is not only limited to the simple tropone but could also
be applied to 2-phenyltropone (5 ) (Scheme [2 ]). As an example, in the case of α-haloamide 2e , the reaction provided compound 6e in 56% yield. Its structure was confirmed by X-ray crystallography (Scheme [2 ]). On the other hand, the reaction proved to be less selective with α-haloamide 2a as two products 6a and 6′a (X-ray crystal structure, Scheme [2 ]) were isolated in 56% and 12% yield, respectively. Disappointingly, we only observed
the decomposition of the tropone derivative when the reaction was conducted in the
presence of tropolone and 2-methoxytropone.
Scheme 2 Influence of tropone substitution on the reactivity. ORTEP drawings of compounds
6e and 6′a . Thermal ellipsoids are shown at 30% probability level.
Scheme 3 Post-modifications and scale-up
Regarding the practical utility of this transformation (Scheme [3 ]), we succeeded to remove selectively the benzyloxy group on the nitrogen to obtain
the corresponding free amide 7 in 89% yield by using Mo(CO)6 as a promoter. Two of the three double bonds were reduced with H2 and Pd/C in ethyl acetate to give 8 with the enamide functionality remaining intact. Additionally, the reaction could
be performed on a 5.7 mmol scale to produce 1.08 g of compound 4d without any drop in yield (77%).
Scheme 4 Computed free energy profile using the benzyl-substituted intermediate B (ΔG
298 , kcal/mol)
Scheme 5 Computed protonation of intermediates D and B
To rationalize the observed selectivity, DFT computations were carried out using the
Gaussian 09 software package (see the Supporting Information for details). Minima
and transition states were optimized using the M06-2X functional[6 ] and the 6-311G(d,p) basis set,[7 ] as implemented in Gaussian. Solvent correction was obtained using the SMD model[8 ] with the parameters of 2-propanol, adjusting the ε value to 16.7.[9 ] The values presented are ΔG
298 in kcal/mol. The first set of computations was carried out with tropone A and the benzyl-substituted ‘azaoxyallyl’ intermediate B which, in agreement with previous computational studies, converged as a 3-membered
ring (Scheme [4 ]).[4k ] The capture of intermediate B by A was modeled though TS[AB]C
, lying 15.7 kcal/mol above the reactants. It leads to the zwitterionic species C , located 8.6 kcal/mol below A and B . Attack of the negatively charged nitrogen atom to the carboxonium center (red pathway,
TSCD
) leads to the spiro intermediate D , which was observed experimentally as a trace component of the mixture. Another possibility
is the conjugate 1,8-addition (blue pathway, TSCE
) to give E . This compound was also experimentally observed as a minor product. The formation
of the spiro compound D is clearly kinetically favored over that of E (–1.8 vs 4.3 kcal/mol). Due to its symmetry-forbidden nature, it was not possible
to locate a [1,7]-sigmatropic nitrogen shift transition state connecting D to E . On the other hand, the symmetry forbidden [1,7]-sigmatropic oxygen shift transition
state could be found, but the transformation of D into F seems unlikely since the corresponding activation free energy is 38.9 kcal/mol (21.3
+ 17.6). Compound F is the most stable of the three observed products D , E , F and is a tautomeric form of E . The direct conversion of E into F can be modeled, but as it is also a symmetry forbidden shift, the corresponding transition
state is not accessible (TSEF
40.6 kcal/mol). Thus, similarly to the keto-enol equilibrium, which cannot be an
intramolecular process and cannot be computed, the isomerization of E into F would require an unknown proton shuttle. Since the isomerization of isolated E into F is relatively longer than the reaction time,[10 ] we can infer that another way should be possible between D and F , that is, something not direct as TSDF
and not through E .
A serious lead was obtained after protonating heterocycles D , E , and F at the oxygen atom. While E and F remained cyclic, the spiro intermediate D opened to form the corresponding tropylium G (Scheme [5a ]). It was not possible to form a six-membered ring from G , but removal of a proton and optimization led to F spontaneously. This suggests that proton-exchanges can directly connect D to the major product F in a stepwise fashion. This raises the question of the proton source, the most obvious
one being HFIP itself. A single HFIP molecule cannot do this job, as shown by the
very large free energy of 37.4 kcal/mol (Scheme [5b ]). However, it is known that the acidity of alcohols comes from the formation of
H-bonded aggregates, a feature that is exceptionally efficient with HFIP.[11 ] Taking for instance a tetramer of HFIP, the free energy of the protonation drops
to 9.9 kcal/mol (Scheme [5c ]). It remains an endergonic reversible process, but the spontaneous formation of
F by simple deprotonation might funnel this reaction. The possible role of HFIP clusters
as proton source prompted us to reconsider a cationic mechanism from the beginning
(Scheme [5d ]). As previously described, cation H , which is the protonated form of B , can be optimized as an azaoxyallyl species.[4b ] Its formation was found exergonic by 6.7 kcal/mol. Manifold efforts failed to locate
a transition state between H and tropone A , and the corresponding adduct I lying at –12.8 kcal/mol. If formed, I can lead to the protonated spiro compound J , but the corresponding transition state, located at 0.0 kcal/mol, would be 1.8 kcal/mol
higher on the energy surface than TSCD
and the reaction would be endergonic by 4.5 kcal/mol (from –12.8 to –8.3 kcal/mol).
Of note, the open compound I is also more stable than K , which is the protonated of E . Both can be connected via TSIK
, lying at 4.2 kcal/mol.
Scheme 6 Computed free energy profile using the phenyl-substituted intermediate B′ (ΔG
298 , kcal/mol)
The case of the phenyl-substituted intermediate B′ was next studied (Scheme [6 ]). The main difference was the absence of the previous zwitterionic intermediate
C because of a direct collapse of the reactants A and B′ to the spiro compound D′ . From there, the rest of the energy profile is similar to the one computed in the
benzyl series.
Scheme 7 Computed protonation of the spiro intermediate D′ and deprotonation of G′
The formation of F′ , unobserved experimentally, could yet have happened as explained above, by protonation
of D′ , which again promotes its spontaneous opening into G′ , and spontaneous ring closure upon deprotonation (Scheme [7a ]). This time though, the formation of G′ requires a higher free energy (13.9 vs 9.9 kcal/mol, Scheme [7c ]). This reflects the lower ability of the NOPh group to stabilize the tropylium ion
compared to the more basic NOBn group.
Without knowing the exact nature of the proton donor, only trends can be derived from
the above calculations. One might propose that each of these reactions circulate through
a spiro intermediate, which isomerizes into F -type products in a stepwise fashion by protonation/deprotonation when starting from
the most basic substrates. With less basic substrates, the spiro intermediate will
rather transform in a stepwise fashion into E -type products (Scheme [8 ]). The way the substitution pattern at A or B influences these two pathways seems to obey a subtle balance between steric and electronic
effects and is difficult to fully rationalize.
Scheme 8 Plausible mechanism
In conclusion, we have devised a formal [8+3]-annulation between tropones and α-haloamides,
enabling the access to new bicyclic nitrogen-containing scaffolds in good yields,
whose selectivity can be controlled by the substituents of the α-haloamides. The reaction
proceeds under mild conditions by using readily available starting materials and further
enriching the synthetic potential of both tropone derivatives and azaoxyallyl cations.
The reaction proceeds through a different pathway than the traditional [8+3]-cycloadditions
involving tropones as suggested by DFT computations.
Unless otherwise stated, reactions were carried out in oven-dried flasks. Analytical
TLC was carried out using TLC-aluminum sheets with 0.2 mm of silica gel (Merck GF234)
using UV light as the visualizing agent and a solution of phosphomolybdic acid in
EtOH as the developing agent. Chromatography purifications were carried out using
flash grade silica gel (SDS Chromatogel 60 ACC, 40–60 mm). Organic solutions were
concentrated under reduced pressure on a Büchi rotary evaporator. NMR spectra were
recorded at 298 K on AM250, AV300, or AV360 MHz Bruker spectrometer. Mass spectra
were recorded on MicrOTOFq Bruker spectrometer by electrospray ionization. Melting
points were determined using a Reichert melting point apparatus. IR spectra were recorded
on a FTIR spectrophotometer (PerkinElmer spectrum one, NaCl pellets or Bruker Vertex
70 ATR Pike Germanium) and are reported in cm–1 .
General Procedure for the Cyclization
General Procedure for the Cyclization
To a solution of tropone (1 equiv) and α-haloamide (2 equiv) in HFIP (0.2 M) was added
Et3 N (2.5 equiv). The reaction mixture was stirred at rt for the indicated time. Then,
it was quenched with sat. aq NH4 Cl and extracted with EtOAc (3 × 10 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with
brine, dried (anhyd MgSO4 ), and filtered. The solvent was removed with rotary evaporation. The crude product
was purified by flash column chromatography using gradients of pentane and EtOAc as
eluent (Table [2 ]).
4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4a) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′a)
4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4a) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′a)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(benzyloxy)-2-bromo-2-methylpropanamide (2a ; 146 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford products
4a as an orange solid (60 mg, 71%) and 4′a as an orange solid (8 mg, 9%).
4a
Mp 63–65 °C.
IR (ATR): 3032, 2982, 2837, 1714, 1698, 1614, 1531, 1455, 1380, 1226, 1112, 1031,
983, 860 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 300 MHz): δ = 7.40–7.30 (m, 5 H), 6.54 (ddd, J = 16.7, 11.1, 6.2 Hz, 2 H), 6.18 (ddd, J = 9.7, 5.7, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 6.00 (dd, J = 6.7, 1.3 Hz, 1 H), 5.20 (dd, J = 9.7, 3.7 Hz, 1 H), 4.92 (d, J = 9.7 Hz, 1 H), 4.81 (d, J = 9.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.85 (dt, J = 3.5, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.56 (s, 3 H), 1.40 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 168.7, 133.9, 129.9, 129.1, 128.9, 128.8, 128.5, 127.2, 124.2, 123.1,
100.6, 77.4, 76.4, 70.5, 25.0, 21.4.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C18 H20 NO3 : 298.1438; found: 298.1430.
4′a
Mp 70–72 °C.
IR (ATR): 2985, 2840, 1710, 1698, 1635, 1455, 1386, 1226, 1050, 998, 865 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.49–7.42 (m, 2 H), 7.39–7.30 (m, 3 H), 6.57–6.42 (m, 2 H), 6.24–6.19
(m, 1 H), 5.79 (d, J = 6.0 Hz, 1 H), 5.36 (dd, J = 9.4, 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.07 (s, 2 H), 3.52 (d, J = 4.4 Hz, 1 H), 1.58 (s, 3 H), 1.55 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 169.4, 140.2, 134.8, 129.7, 129.1, 128.7, 128.1, 127.0, 125.2, 120.9,
105.4, 80.7, 60.4, 25.3, 24.7 (one carbon hidden).
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C18 H19 NO3 Na: 320.1257; found: 320.1250.
4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4b) and 4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′b)
4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4b) and 4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′b)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), 2-bromo-N -(tert -butoxy)-2-methylpropanamide (2b ; 134 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford products
4b as a white solid (53 mg, 72%) and 4′b as a white solid (6 mg, 8%).
4b
Mp 55–57 °C.
IR (ATR): 2979, 2935, 1715, 1612, 1523, 1464, 1380, 1368, 1281, 1221, 1183, 1115,
1033, 980, 863 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 6.53 (ddd, J = 16.7, 11.0, 6.2 Hz, 2 H), 6.19 (ddd, J = 9.5, 5.7, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 6.01 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.32 (dt, J = 9.1, 4.6 Hz, 1 H), 3.83–3.78 (m, 1 H), 1.59 (s, 3 H), 1.37 (s, 3 H), 1.19 (s, J = 3.8 Hz, 9 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 173.1, 132.5, 129.1, 126.8, 124.1, 123.4, 101.4, 86.3, 78.2, 71.3,
27.4, 25.9, 21.2.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C15 H22 NO3 : 264.1594; found: 264.1588.
4′b
Mp 88–90 °C.
IR (ATR): 2984, 2840, 1702, 1682, 1578, 1385, 1367, 1284, 1143, 1006, 964, 868 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 6.52–6.45 (m, 2 H), 6.24–6.18 (m, 1 H), 5.81–5.75 (m, 1 H), 5.47 (dd,
J = 9.5, 4.8 Hz, 1 H), 3.80 (d, J = 4.8 Hz, 1 H), 1.62 (s, 3 H), 1.48 (s, 3 H), 1.29 (s, 9 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 173.1, 141.9, 128.6, 127.1, 125.4, 122.1, 104.5, 84.4, 81.2, 62.4,
27.5, 26.6, 23.6.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C15 H21 NO3 Na: 286.1414; found: 286.1409.
4-Methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4c) and 4-Methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′c)
4-Methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4c) and 4-Methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′c)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), 2-bromo-N -methoxy-2-methylpropanamide (2c ; 111 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 3 h, the crude product was purified
by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford products 4c as an orange oil (39 mg, 63%) and 4′c as an orange oil (5 mg, 8%).
4c
IR (ATR): 2987, 2835, 1708 1685, 1436, 1398, 1375, 1284, 1111, 1004, 971, 868 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 6.54 (ddd, J = 16.8, 11.1, 6.3 Hz, 2 H), 6.21 (ddd, J = 10.0, 5.8, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.94 (dd, J = 6.8, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 5.26 (dd, J = 9.8, 3.6 Hz, 1 H), 3.88 (dt, J = 3.6, 1.8 Hz, 1 H), 3.70 (s, 3 H), 1.57 (s, 3 H), 1.40 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 168.2, 128.9, 128.3, 127.3, 124.4, 123.2, 100.2, 77.3, 70.4, 61.9,
25.0, 21.5.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C12 H15 NO3 Na: 244.0944; found: 244.0934.
4′c
IR (ATR): 2985, 2838, 1702, 1682, 1578, 1503, 1385, 1367, 1150, 1008, 970 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 6.59–6.47 (m, 2 H), 6.26 (dd, J = 9.5, 4.9 Hz, 1 H), 5.83 (d, J = 5.8 Hz, 1 H), 5.41 (dd, J = 9.4, 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.88 (s, 3 H), 3.70 (d, J = 5.0 Hz, 1 H), 1.56 (br s, 6 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 169.3, 140.2, 128.2, 127.1, 125.4, 120.9, 105.6, 80.7, 62.4, 59.4,
25.2, 24.7.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C12 H15 NO3 Na: 244.0944; found: 244.0939.
4-(Allyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4d)
4-(Allyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4d)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 50 mg, 0.471 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(allyloxy)-2-bromo-2-methylpropanamide (2d ; 209 mg, 0.942 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (164 μL, 1.180 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (2.3 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product
4d as an orange oil (87 mg, 75%).
Scale-up : Starting from tropone (1 ; 606 mg, 5.7 mmol, 1 equiv), 2d (2.52 g, 11.43 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (2 mL, 14.27 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (28 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was purified
by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product 4d as an orange oil (1.08 g, 77%).
IR (ATR): 2984, 2939, 1872, 1714, 1682, 1613, 1526, 1504, 1382, 1304, 1227, 1172,
1112, 1031, 984, 844 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 6.59 (dd, J = 11.1, 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 6.48 (dd, J = 11.1, 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 6.19 (ddd, J = 9.7, 5.7, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 5.99–5.83 (m, 2 H), 5.30–5.19 (m, 3 H), 4.38–4.28 (m, 2
H), 3.85 (dt, J = 3.5, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.55 (s, 3 H), 1.39 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 168.8, 131.1, 128.9, 128.8, 127.1, 124.1, 123.3, 121.4, 100.4, 77.3,
75.1, 70.5, 25.0, 21.3.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C14 H17 NO3 Na: 270.1101; found: 270.1094.
2,2-Dimethyl-4-phenoxy-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′e)
2,2-Dimethyl-4-phenoxy-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (4′e)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), 2-bromo-2-methyl-N -phenoxypropanamide (2e ; 146 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product
4′e as an orange oil (38 mg, 47%).
IR (ATR): 2980, 2835, 1754, 1709, 1591, 1542, 1488, 1381, 1291, 1198, 1168, 1000,
962, 872 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.36–7.30 (m, 2 H), 7.12–7.02 (m, 3 H), 6.54–6.46 (m, 2 H), 6.20 (ddd,
J = 9.3, 3.6, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 5.90 (d, J = 5.4 Hz, 1 H), 5.43 (dd, J = 9.5, 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.86 (d, J = 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.56 (br s, 6 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 170.5, 158.3, 139.9, 129.8, 128.1, 127.4, 125.5, 123.6, 120.3, 113.6,
106.1, 81.3, 60.9, 25.2, 24.9.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C17 H18 NO3 : 284.1281; found: 284.1276.
4-(Benzyloxy)-4,9a-dihydro-3H -spiro[cyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazine-2,1′-cyclohexan]-3-one (4f), 4-(Benzyloxy)-4,4a-dihydro-3H -spiro[cyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazine-2,1′-cyclohexan]-3-one (4′f), and 15-(Benzyloxy)-7-oxa-15-azadispiro[5.1.68 .26 ]hexadeca-9,11,13-trien-16-one (3f)
4-(Benzyloxy)-4,9a-dihydro-3H -spiro[cyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazine-2,1′-cyclohexan]-3-one (4f), 4-(Benzyloxy)-4,4a-dihydro-3H -spiro[cyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazine-2,1′-cyclohexan]-3-one (4′f), and 15-(Benzyloxy)-7-oxa-15-azadispiro[5.1.68 .26 ]hexadeca-9,11,13-trien-16-one (3f)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(benzyloxy)-1-bromocyclohexanecarboxamide (2f ; 176 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 36 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford products
4f as an orange oil (40 mg, 42%), 4′f as an orange oil (42 mg, 45%), and 3f as an orange oil (5 mg, 5%).
4f
IR (ATR): 2933, 2858, 1698, 1611, 1502, 1451, 1272, 1102, 1032, 970, 844 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 300 MHz): δ = 7.42–7.28 (m, 5 H), 6.59 (dd, J = 11.0, 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 6.48 (dd, J = 11.0, 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 6.18 (ddd, J = 9.7, 5.7, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 5.98 (dd, J = 6.7, 1.2 Hz, 1 H), 5.22 (dd, J = 9.7, 3.7 Hz, 1 H), 4.91 (d, J = 9.7 Hz, 1 H), 4.79 (d, J = 9.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.79 (dt, J = 3.3, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 2.20–2.04 (m, 1 H), 1.99–1.91 (m, 1 H), 1.87–1.26 (m, 8 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 169.0, 134.0, 129.9, 129.1, 129.0, 128.9, 128.5, 127.0, 124.1, 123.3,
100.4, 78.4, 76.4, 69.8, 32.4, 28.8, 25.2, 21.0, 20.9.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C21 H24 NO3 : 338.1751; found: 338.1740.
4′f
IR (ATR): 2934, 2858, 1683, 1611, 1502, 1449, 1378, 1273, 1241, 1112, 1032, 970, 914
cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 300 MHz): δ = 7.47–7.41 (m, 2 H), 7.38–7.32 (m, 3 H), 6.58–6.41 (m, 2 H), 6.26–6.16
(m, 1 H), 5.84 (d, J = 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.36 (dd, J = 9.5, 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.06 (s, J = 10.3 Hz, 2 H), 3.50 (d, J = 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 2.13–2.01 (m, 1 H), 1.99–1.78 (m, 3 H), 1.73–1.55 (m, 5 H), 1.42–1.24
(m, 1 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 169.7, 139.9, 134.8, 129.7, 129.1, 128.6, 127.9, 127.0, 125.1, 121.0,
105.6, 81.6, 60.2, 32.3, 31.5, 24.8, 20.6, 20.5 (one carbon hidden).
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C21 H23 NO3 Na: 360.1570; found: 360.1556.
3f
Product unstable on silica gel.
IR (ATR): 2938, 2860, 1702, 1562, 1398, 1358, 1289, 1241, 1110, 1035, 981, 914 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 300 MHz): δ = 7.43–7.28 (m, 5 H), 6.59–6.51 (m, 2 H), 6.50–6.40 (m, 2 H), 5.66 (d,
J = 10.8 Hz, 2 H), 5.03 (s, 2 H), 1.86–1.42 (m, 10 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 171.4, 134.7, 130.1, 129.8, 129.0, 128.5, 128.1, 127.0, 89.6, 78.7,
78.2, 35.2, 24.9, 21.2.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C21 H23 NO3 Na: 360.1570; found: 360.1561.
4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dichloro-1-oxa-4-azaspiro[4.6]undeca-6,8,10-trien-3-one (3g)
4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dichloro-1-oxa-4-azaspiro[4.6]undeca-6,8,10-trien-3-one (3g)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 30 mg, 0.283 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(benzyloxy)-2,2,2-trichloroacetamide (2g ; 151 mg, 0.566 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (98 μL, 0.707 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.4 mL) for 3 h, the crude product was purified
by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product 3g as an orange oil (46 mg, 48%).
IR (ATR): 2925, 2855, 1641, 1600, 1567, 1453, 1363, 1082, 1041, 1012, 918, 885, 747,
696 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.44–7.28 (m, 5 H), 6.97–6.87 (m, 1 H), 6.44–6.35 (m, 1 H), 6.24–6.06
(m, 4 H), 5.13 (s, 2 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 156.4, 137.9, 134.1, 132.8, 132.0, 130.3, 129.5, 128.4, 128.0, 127.8,
125.8, 76.0 (two carbons hidden).
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C16 H13 Cl2 NO3 Na: 360.0165; found: 360.3215.
4-(Benzyloxy)-2-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (trans -4h) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (cis -4h)
4-(Benzyloxy)-2-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (trans -4h) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (cis -4h)
Following the general procedure, starting from tropone (1 ; 50 mg, 0.471 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(benzyloxy)-2-bromo-2-phenylacetamide (2h ; 300 mg, 0.942 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (164 μL, 1.178 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (2.3 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford the
products trans -4h as an orange oil (52 mg, 32%) and cis -4h as an orange oil (19 mg, 12%).
trans-4h
IR (ATR): 2938, 2879, 1699, 1611, 1541, 1454, 1116, 1037, 918 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.44–7.33 (m, 10 H), 6.62 (dd, J = 11.1, 6.9 Hz, 1 H), 6.52 (dd, J = 11.1, 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 6.22 (ddd, J = 9.8, 5.7, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 6.10 (dd, J = 7.0, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 5.29 (dd, J = 9.9, 3.5 Hz, 1 H), 5.07 (s, 1 H), 4.96 (d, J = 9.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.90 (d, J = 9.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.09 (dt, J = 3.3, 1.6 Hz, 1 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 165.9, 134.6, 133.9, 130.1, 129.1 (2 C), 129.0, 128.7, 128.5, 128.1,
127.5, 124.4, 122.6, 101.7, 78.9, 76.5, 74.6 (one carbon hidden).
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C22 H20 NO3 : 346.1438; found: 346.1425.
cis -4h
IR (ATR): 2938, 2849, 1699, 1611, 1531, 1454, 1362, 1115, 1076, 996 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.49–7.41 (m, 2 H), 7.38–7.29 (m, 8 H), 6.49 (dd, J = 11.1, 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 6.40 (dd, J = 11.1, 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 6.17 (ddd, J = 9.9, 5.6, 1.6 Hz, 1 H), 6.00 (dd, J = 6.7, 1.2 Hz, 1 H), 5.63 (s, 1 H), 5.31 (dd, J = 9.8, 3.8 Hz, 1 H), 5.04 (d, J = 9.6 Hz, 1 H), 4.93 (d, J = 9.6 Hz, 1 H), 3.70–3.68 (m, 1 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 164.2, 133.8, 133.2, 130.0, 129.2, 129.1, 129.0, 128.9, 128.6, 128.1,
127.4, 124.5, 122.5, 101.3, 78.7, 76.8, 70.7 (one carbon hidden).
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C22 H20 NO3 : 346.1438; found: 346.1427.
3,3-Dimethyl-4-phenoxy-9-phenyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-2(3H )-one (6e)
3,3-Dimethyl-4-phenoxy-9-phenyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-2(3H )-one (6e)
Following the general procedure, starting from 2-phenylcyclohepta-2,4,6-trienone (5 ; 43 mg, 0.236 mmol, 1 equiv), 2-bromo-2-methyl-N -phenoxypropanamide (2e ; 121 mg, 0.472 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (83 μL, 0.590 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (1.2 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product
6e as an orange solid (47 mg, 56%); mp 133–135 °C.
IR (ATR): 2990, 2939, 2875, 1705, 1694, 1591, 1487, 1379, 1362, 1293, 1170, 1154,
1000, 964 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.41–7.28 (m, 7 H), 7.13–7.07 (m, 3 H), 6.74–6.68 (m, 1 H), 6.62–6.56
(m, 1 H), 6.30 (ddd, J = 9.3, 5.3, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.66 (dd, J = 9.3, 4.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.07 (dd, J = 5.0, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 1.68 (s, 3 H), 1.60 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 170.3, 158.0, 137.1, 136.2, 132.5, 129.9, 129.4, 128.1, 127.3, 127.0,
125.5, 123.7, 123.2, 118.8, 113.8, 81.6, 61.0, 25.7, 24.6.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C23 H22 NO3 : 360.1594; found: 360.1577.
4-(Benzyloxy)-3,3-dimethyl-9-phenyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-2(3H )-one (6a) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-5-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (6b)
4-(Benzyloxy)-3,3-dimethyl-9-phenyl-4,4a-dihydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-2(3H )-one (6a) and 4-(Benzyloxy)-2,2-dimethyl-5-phenyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (6b)
Following the general procedure, starting from 2-phenylcyclohepta-2,4,6-trienone (5 ; 80 mg, 0.425 mmol, 1 equiv), N -(benzyloxy)-2-bromo-2-methylpropanamide (2a ; 231 mg, 0.850 mmol, 2 equiv), and Et3 N (148 μL, 1.060 mmol, 2.5 equiv) in HFIP (2.1 mL) for 16 h, the crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (100/0 to 95/5 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product
6a as an orange oil (89 mg, 56%) and 6b as an orange solid (19 mg, 12%).
6a
IR (ATR): 2988, 2835, 1687, 1653, 1603, 1455, 1376, 1295, 1150, 1029, 1014, 908 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.50–7.42 (m, 2 H), 7.40–7.25 (m, 8 H), 6.66–6.53 (m, 2 H), 6.27 (ddd,
J = 9.2, 5.0, 1.4 Hz, 1 H), 5.52 (dd, J = 9.3, 5.1 Hz, 1 H), 5.16–5.04 (m, 2 H), 3.74 (dd, J = 5.1, 1.5 Hz, 1 H), 1.56 (s, 3 H), 1.50 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 169.3, 137.3, 136.4, 134.8, 132.4, 130.5, 129.7, 129.5, 129.1, 128.7,
128.1, 127.1, 126.9, 125.2, 123.8, 117.9, 81.0, 60.6, 25.8, 24.5.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C24 H24 NO3 : 374.1751; found: 374.1732.
6b
Mp 110–112 °C.
IR (ATR): 2978, 2936, 2850, 1704, 1595, 1490, 1452, 1382, 1323, 1280, 1224, 1170,
1130, 988 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 7.37–7.31 (m, 2 H), 7.28–7.23 (m, 3 H), 7.21–7.10 (m, 3 H), 6.86–6.78
(m, 2 H), 6.77–6.74 (m, 1 H), 6.70–6.62 (m, 1 H), 6.28 (ddd, J = 9.2, 5.5, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 5.27 (dd, J = 9.3, 4.4 Hz, 1 H), 4.42 (s, 2 H), 3.58 (dd, J = 4.3, 1.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.62 (s, 3 H), 1.59 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 101 MHz): δ = 168.7, 139.1, 134.0, 133.0, 129.6, 129.5, 129.1, 128.5, 128.1, 128.1,
127.4, 126.1, 123.7, 120.7, 117.0, 77.7, 75.0, 72.7, 24.9, 21.1.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + H]+ calcd for C24 H24 NO3 : 374.1751; found: 374.1743.
2,2-Dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (7)
2,2-Dimethyl-4,9a-dihydrocyclohepta[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (7)
In a round-bottomed flask, were placed compound 4a (100 mg, 0.337 mmol, 1 equiv) and [Mo(CO)6 ] (195 mg, 0.740 mmol, 2.2 equiv). A mixture MeCN/H2 O (9:1, 3 mL) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred under reflux for 16 h.
Then, it was filtered through a short pad of Celite, which was rinsed with CH2 Cl2 . The solution was dried (anhyd MgSO4 ), filtered, and the solvent was removed with rotary evaporation. The crude product
was purified by flash column chromatography (60/40 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product
7 as an orange solid (57 mg, 89%); mp 161–163 °C.
IR (ATR): 2934, 2874, 1680, 1631, 1531, 1381, 1263, 1226, 1106, 966 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 8.69 (br s, 1 H), 6.55–6.41 (m, 2 H), 6.22–6.13 (m, 1 H), 5.64 (dd,
J = 5.6, 1.4 Hz, 1 H), 5.25 (dd, J = 9.9, 3.5 Hz, 1 H), 3.88 (dt, J = 3.5, 1.8 Hz, 1 H), 1.55 (s, 3 H), 1.44 (s, 3 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 174.5, 128.9, 128.4, 127.2, 124.0, 123.3, 101.9, 75.8, 69.1, 24.5,
21.6.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [M + Na]+ calcd for C11 H13 NO2 Na: 214.0835; found: 214.0828.
4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,6,7,8,9,9a-hexahydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (8)
4-(tert -Butoxy)-2,2-dimethyl-4,6,7,8,9,9a-hexahydrocyclohepta-[b ][1,4]oxazin-3(2H )-one (8)
In a round-bottomed flask were placed compound 4b (25 mg, 0.095 mmol, 1 equiv) and Pd/C (3 mg, 10% w/w). EtOAc (5 mL) was added and
the reaction mixture was stirred at rt for 3 h under H2 atmosphere. Then, it was filtered through a short pad of Celite, which was rinsed
with EtOAc. The solvent was removed with rotary evaporation. The crude product was
purified by flash column chromatography (90/10 pentane/EtOAc) to afford product 8 as an orange oil (21 mg, 84%).
IR (ATR): 2929, 2919, 2876, 1699, 1652, 1541, 1472, 1095, 960 cm–1 .
1 H NMR (CDCl3 , 360 MHz): δ = 5.60 (ddd, J = 9.4, 5.8, 2.0 Hz, 1 H), 4.61 (d, J = 9.9 Hz, 1 H), 2.33–2.22 (m, 1 H), 2.08–1.92 (m, 2 H), 1.74–1.59 (m, 5 H), 1.48
(s, 3 H), 1.36 (s, 3 H), 1.32 (s, 9 H).
13 C NMR (CDCl3 , 91 MHz): δ = 169.3, 138.2, 122.6, 85.5, 78.7, 31.9, 31.3, 30.2, 28.0, 27.2, 26.4,
24.6, 24.2.
HRMS (ESI+ ): m /z [(M-t BuOH) + Na]+ calcd for C11 H16 NO2 Na: 217.1079; found: 217.1069.
