Cross-conjugated vinylogous annulation of π-CF3-allyl Pd-complexes with 4-methyl-3-trifluoroacetyl-quinolones

Abstract

Herein, we disclose the hitherto unknown cross-conjugated vinylogous annulation of π-CF₃-allyl Pd complexes with 4-methyl-3-trifluoroacetyl-quinolones to access phenanthridones. The CF₃ group in the Pd-π-allyl complex is key for exclusive γ-regioselectivity and further annulation. The solvent switch orchestrates the dihydro-phenanthridones (CH₃CN) and hydroxy-phenanthridones (DMF) in good yields, and also showed excellent optoelectronic properties.