Microwave assisted rapid, catalyst-free, and efficient synthesis of a new class of diversely functionalized 3-hydroxy-2-oxindole scaffolds under aqueous reaction media

An efficient and rapid synthesis of a new class of diversely functionalized 3-substituted, 3-hydroxy-2-oxindoles scaffolds in catalyst-free conditions is described by the reaction of 1,3-diketone with isatins under microwave irradiation in aqueous medium. The generality of the reaction to afford the γ regioselective aldol addition products is well demonstrated by screening different structurally varied 1,3-diketone nucleophiles as well as isatin electrophiles. Simple reaction condition, good isolated yield of the product, and environmentally benign medium are attractive features of the present protocol.