Smiles Rearrangements in Ugi- and Passerini-Type Couplings:  New Multicomponent Access to O- and N-Arylamides

The use of Smiles rearrangement in Ugi- and Passerini-type couplings with electron-deficient phenols allows very straightforward multicomponent formation of O-aryl- and N-arylamides. Best yields were observed with the highly activated o- and p-nitrophenols, salicylic derivatives giving adducts in lower yields. The scope of these new reactions is further increased by the successful couplings of heterocyclic phenols such as hydroxypyridines and hydroxypyrimidines.