Synthesis of 1 H -Isoindoles via Ruthenium(II)-Catalyzed Cyclization of Benzimidates with Alkenes.

A Ru(II)-catalyzed efficient synthesis of 1 H -isoindoles via the cyclization of benzimidates with alkenes has been demonstrated. This methodology exhibits high compatibility with various functionalized activated and unactivated olefins containing different sensitive functional groups. This protocol provides an effective method for synthesizing various 1 H -isoindole derivatives in decent to excellent yields. Notably, the ortho -alkenylation of benzimidates with unactivated alkenes was achieved. A potential reaction mechanism has been suggested that involves C-H activation, 1,2 insertion, and β -hydride elimination subsequent to aza-Michael addition.