Synthesis of bicyclic 2,6-diketopiperazines via a three-step sequence involving an Ugi five-center, four-component reaction

A three-step sequence involving an Ugi five-center, four-component reaction (U-5C-4CR), amide N-detertbutylation and cyclocondensation has been developed for easy access to diverse bicyclic 2,6-diketopiperazine (2,6-DKP) derivatives. In the key step, aromatic aldehydes were successfully coupled with cyclic α-amino acids and isocyanides in the course of U-5C-4CR. Boron trifluoride-acetic acid complex was developed as a new N-detertbutylating agent effective at rt.