Concise synthesis of succinimide-fused 1,3-cyclohexadienes via Co-catalyzed [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of 1,6-diynes and maleimides

Abstract

Herein, we report a new route towards succinimide-fused 1,3-cyclohexadienes through the reaction of 1,6-diynes with electron-deficient alkenes under cobalt catalysis. This method showed high efficiency, a wide substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, good atom economy, and easy scale-up. Furthermore, the succinimide-fused 1,3-cyclohexadienes were easily converted, via dehydrogenation under the cooperative work of iodine/CH₃ONa, in good to excellent yields to 7,9,11-triaryl-8H-acenaphtho[1,2-f]isoindole-8,10(9H)-dione derivatives, compounds expected to display good photophysical properties.