Divergent Synthesis of Quinolones and Dihydroepindolidiones via Cu(I)-Catalyzed Cyclization of Anilines with Alkynes.

A unique and efficient method for one-pot synthesis of diverse 4-quinolones from simple and readily available primary anilines and alkynes via Cu(I)-catalyzed direct cyclization has been developed. The (thio)phenols were also found to visible substrates for this reaction. Moreover, an unprecedented synthesis of dihydroepindolidiones has been demonstrated by using secondary anilines as the versatile substrates.