Aromatizative Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Hetero‐Diels‐Alder Reaction in the Synthesis of Benzothiophene Derivatives

Abstract

An interesting inverse‐electron‐demand hetero‐Diels–Alder cycloaddition between azlactones and α,β‐unsaturated ketones derived from thioisatine has been developed. The reaction has been realized under basic conditions and benefits from its aromatizative character; the formation of benzothiophene moiety is the driving force of the cascade. An enantioselective variant of the cycloaddition has also been developed, with moderate enantioselectivities obtained.