Sequential one-pot method for oxy-Michael addition, Heck coupling, and degradation followed by condensation: facile synthesis of 2-benzoxepin-3(1H)-ones

A sequential one-pot intermolecular oxy-Michael addition, intermolecular Heck coupling, and intramolecular degradation (retro-oxy-Michael addition) followed by condensation method has been developed for the synthesis of interesting 2-benzoxepin-3(1H)-ones. Significantly, the 2-benzoxepin-3(1H)-ones form the core quantum of biologically vital natural products. The initial oxy-Michael addition and Heck coupling steps involve a straight forward construction of C–O and C–C bonds, whereas, the final condensation step follows a novel mechanistic path via intramolecular degradation, double bond isomerization, and intramolecular condensation. Notably, a remarkable solvent effect has been observed in-order to promote the final intramolecular condensation.