Pd-Catalyzed Redox-Neutral C-N Coupling Reaction of Iminoquinones with Electron-Deficient Alkenes without External Oxidants: Access of Tertiary (E)-Enamines and Application to the Synthesis of Indoles and Quinolin-4-ones

A novel and efficient reductive N-alkenylation of iminoquinones with electron-deficient olefins has been successfully developed by Pd(II)-catalyzed redox-neutral reactions, which provides a synthesis of tertiary (E)-enamines. We further demonstrate that the tertiary enamines can be converted to multifarious N-heterocyclic compounds, indoles, and quinolones in good yields.