Phase-Transfer-Catalyst-Mediated Domino Reaction of gamma-Nitro Ketones with Chalcones: Approach to Functionalized Six-Membered-Ring Carbocycles

Domino reactions between -nitro ketones and chalcones for the construction of functionalized six-membered-ring carbocycles using a phase-transfer catalyst have been developed. In the presence of tetrabutylammonium iodide and potassium hydroxide, domino reactions between -nitro ketones and a series of chalcones proceeded smoothly to give the cyclic products in moderate to high yields with high diastereoselectivities. Importantly, multiply substituted and functionalized six-membered-ring carbocycles could be efficiently prepared in one pot using this domino strategy.