Asymmetric triple relay catalysis: Enantioselective synthesis of spirocyclic indolines through a one-pot process featuring an asymmetric 6π electrocyclization

A rare example of a one-pot process that involves asymmetric triple relay catalysis is reported. The key step is an asymmetric [1,5] electrocyclic reaction of functionalized ketimines. The substrates for this process were obtained in situ in a two-step process that involved the hydrogenation of nitroarenes with a Pd/C catalyst to yield aryl amines and their subsequent coupling with isatin derivatives in a Brønsted acid catalyzed ketimine formation reaction. The electrocycli-zation was catalyzed by a bifunctional chiral Brønsted base/ hydrogen bond donor catalyst. The one-pot process gave the desired products in good yields and with excellent enantiose-lectivity.