Catalyst-free aza-Michael addition of azole to β,γ-unsaturated-α-keto ester: an efficient access to C–N bond formation

An efficient aza-Michael addition of azoles to β,γ-unsaturated-α-keto esters under room temperature conditions has been developed. In this conjugate addition, no additional catalyst is employed. Azole reacts with β,γ-unsaturated-α-keto ester smoothly to afford new C–N bond adducts in good to excellent yields (up to 96%).