A Novel PPh3 Mediated One-Pot Method for Synthesis of 3‑Aryl or Alkyl 1,2-Benzisoxazoles

A novel, efficient, and facile protocol has been developed for transforming 2-hydroxy­benzonitriles and bromides into a range of 3-aryl or alkyl substituted 1,2-benzisoxazoles in good to excellent yields mediated by PPh3. The electronic and steric effects of bromides on the reaction are discussed. This is the first example to construct a C–C bond and heterocycle in a Barbier–Grignard-type reaction featuring easier recovery of PPh3 than a metallic catalyst in one step.