Efficient synthesis of bulky 4-substituted-isatins via microwave-promoted Suzuki cross-coupling reaction

Indoline-2,3-diones (isatins) and their derivatives are important heterocycles found in nature and present in numerous bioactive compounds. Very few examples related to the synthesis of 4-substituted-arylisatins have been reported before. Utilizing microwave irradiation, the synthesis of bulky 4-substituted-arylisatins via a Suzuki cross-coupling has been developed with a wide range of substrates. All the reactions proceeded smoothly and afforded moderate to excellent yields of products, which indicating that electronic effects and steric modifications have little effect on this reaction.