Synthesis of 2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one derivatives via Ni-catalyzed intramolecular hydroacylation

An efficient synthetic method for the formation of 2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one derivatives through a Ni-catalyzed intramolecular hydroacylation of 2-(prop-2-ynyl)benzaldehydes has been developed. Examination of various nickel and other transition metal catalysts and phosphine ligands showed that the use of Ni(COD)2 catalyst combined with P(i-Pr)3 ligand was the best choice to the success of the present intramolecular hydroacylation. A wide range of functional groups were tolerated, affording the corresponding substituted α-lidene-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-ones in good to high yields with a sole E-selectivity under present reaction conditions.