Tricyclic isoindolines by Heck cyclization

A series of 4-formyl esters 8a–d was prepared by Michael addition of an enamine with ethyl acrylate. A subsequent condensation with 2-bromobenzylamines 3 gave rise to cyclic enamides 9aa–dd. In a Heck cyclization reaction tricyclic isoindoles 10aa–dd were formed in good yields.