Efficient construction of highly functionalized endo′-selective spiro[pyrrolidin-2,3′-oxindoles] via a regioselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction between 3-amino oxindoles as azomethine ylide precursors and nitroalkenes

An efficient synthesis of novel endo′-selective spiro[pyrrolidin-2,3′-oxindoles] has been achieved via a three component regioselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction. The azomethine ylides generated in situ from 3-amino oxindoles and aldehydes reacted with the nitroalkenes to furnish novel pyrrolidine–spirooxindole derivatives bearing one spiro quaternary center and multiple chiral centers in moderate to high yields (up to 99%) with high diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1). The structure and relative stereochemistry of cycloadducts were confirmed by NMR spectra and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The possible mechanism was proposed and the cycloaddition proceeded via endo′-transition state.