Synthesis of 4-(1 H -isochromen-1-yl)isoquinolines through the silver-catalysed homodimerization of ortho -alkynylarylaldehydes and subsequent condensation of the 1,5-dicarbonyl motif with NH 3 .

4-(1 H -Isochromen-1-yl)isoquinoline derivatives were synthesized in high yields via the AgBF 4 -catalyzed self-reaction of ortho -alkynylarylaldehydes to give isochromene intermediates, followed by the dehydration of the 1,5-dicarbonyl motif with NH 3 . Compared with electron-rich aromatic substituents, this strategy can provide the desired isochromene products with an electron-deficient isoquinoline unit. The reactions feature simple experimental operations, mild reaction conditions and high product yields.