Multicomponent Synthesis of Functionalized Tetrahydroacridinones:Insights into a Mechanistic Route.

A mechanisticstudy of three-component reactions of various aromaticamines with a number of aldehydes and 1,3-diones was achieved. Theunprecedented reaction involved a nucleophilic attack of an aromaticamine on the in situ generated Michael adduct intermediate followedby six-electron ring cyclizations. It is contrary to the common beliefthat advocates involvement of coupling reactions between a Knoevenageladduct and an aromatic amine to deliver substituted tetrahydroacridinones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]