Ru-catalyzed synthesis of substituted phthalides through C–H bond activation and functionalization.

Graphical abstract Highlights • Synthesis of phthalides using phthalic anhydride derivatives for the first time. • The structure of a desired product was admitted by X-ray crystallography. • Mechanism includes C H bond activation, vinylation, decarboxylation and annulation. • A number of corresponding phthalides were obtained in good yields. Abstract Synthesis of substituted phthalides through a ruthenium-catalyzed reaction of phthalic anhydrides with acrylates is described. The reaction proceeds via C H bond activation and leads to the formation of vinylated phthalides through a successive double vinylation accompanied by decarboxylation and annulation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]