Synthesis of N-substituted carbazolones from α-iodo enaminones via Pd(0)-catalyzed intramolecular coupling under microwave irradiation

A variety of N-aryl and N-alkyl carbazolones were conveniently achieved in good to high yields via Pd2(dba)3-mediated intramolecular coupling of N-substituted α-iodo enaminones under microwave irradiation. The Pd(0)-catalyzed cyclization was found to proceed favorably with the more electron-deficient phenyl ring during the reactions involving unsymmetrical N,N-diaryl α-iodo enaminones. This unique property enables the construction of carbazolone skeleton containing nitro substituted benzenoid ring.