An Unprecedented Synthesis of 3,3‐Disubstituted Isochroman‐1,4‐diones Using Nitrones as Oxygen Atom Donors

A one‐pot reaction of ninhydrin, N‐methyl‐C‐phenyl nitrone, and secondary amine leading to the unprecedented synthesis of 3,3‐disubstituted isochroman‐1,4‐diones is described here. In this reaction, nitrone acts as an oxygen atom donor producing an imine as a side product. The mild reaction conditions, the flexibility of the secondary amines that can be used, the novelty of the product, and the good yields are the highlights of this reaction.