Accessing Extended Fused Isoindolinones Via Sequential Anionic Intramolecular Cyclizations.

Sequential anionic intramolecular cyclizations and modelling were used for the first time to access unusual fused heterocyclic frameworks in excellent yields. 5-Exo-dig cyclizations yielded isoindolinone motifs and a subsequent 6-exo- and 7-endo-dig cyclization was directed to provide either fused isoquinoline or azepine frameworks. Regioselectivities were controlled by exploiting stereoelectronic effects via nC- →π*(Ph) interactions, and modelling studies provided reaction scope.